Every year, countless individuals are forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence, and disasters, resulting in displacement crises around the globe. However, not all crises receive the same level of attention or support. The “World’s Most Neglected Displacement Crises 2020” report by the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) sheds light on those that have been left in the shadows.
Criteria for Assessing Neglect
The NRC’s report evaluated 40 displacement crises using a set of three criteria to measure the level of neglect. Firstly, the lack of international political will to find solutions for the displaced was considered. This includes the absence of efforts to resolve conflicts or to engage in peacekeeping and reconstruction initiatives. Secondly, the report measured the lack of media attention, which is crucial in garnering public empathy and galvanizing global action. Lastly, the lack of economic support was assessed, looking at the financial aid provided by the international community to tackle the crises, which is often necessary for humanitarian assistance and rebuilding efforts.
Africa’s Predominance in the List
The findings of the report are stark, with Africa dominating the list of neglected displacement crises. A staggering 80 percent of the crises deemed most neglected were found on the African continent. This highlights a concerning trend of overlooked emergencies in a region that is disproportionately affected by displacement. The reasons for this neglect vary but include factors such as geopolitical interests, donor fatigue, and the sheer number of concurrent crises drawing away focus and resources.
The Ten Most Neglected Crises
Within the report, eight of the ten countries identified with the most neglected displacement crises were in Africa. These include:
1. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Despite years of conflict and millions displaced, the DRC continues to suffer from insufficient international attention and aid.
2. Cameroon – Internal conflicts have caused significant displacement, yet the crisis remains underreported and underfunded.
3. Burundi – Political turmoil and violence have led to mass displacement, with little external support to address the situation.
4. Nigeria – The insurgency in the northeast and communal clashes have displaced millions, with the crisis receiving inadequate international response.
5. Burkina Faso – A rapidly escalating humanitarian crisis with an increasing number of displaced people lacks sufficient support.
6. Ethiopia – Ethnic conflicts and political tensions have resulted in large-scale displacement, not matched by adequate international concern.
7. Central African Republic (CAR) – Ongoing conflict has caused widespread displacement, with a persistent gap in humanitarian funding.
8. Mali – Instability and violence in the Sahel region have led to displacement, with limited global attention.
Outside of Africa, Venezuela and Honduras also featured on the list. Venezuela’s economic and political crisis has led to one of the largest displacement events in the world, yet it does not receive commensurate international support. Similarly, Honduras faces challenges due to gang violence and poverty, driving displacement without sufficient external assistance.
Implications of Neglect
The neglect of these displacement crises has profound implications for the affected populations. Without adequate international political will, media coverage, and economic support, the opportunities for resolving the crises and improving the lives of the displaced are significantly reduced. Humanitarian organizations struggle to provide relief, and long-term solutions such as resettlement, integration, or voluntary return become harder to achieve.
The NRC’s report serves as a call to action for the international community to not only recognize but actively engage with the world’s most neglected displacement crises. By doing so, we can hope to alleviate the suffering of millions and work towards a more equitable and responsive global humanitarian system.
