Iraq: Data Collection and Analysis to Inform Efforts to End Protracted Displacement
Various data collection and analysis tools have been developed in Iraq to gain an understanding of the barriers that impede durable solutions for IDPs returning home as well as for the other 1.3 million IDPs living away from their places of origin. The Iraqi Ministry of Migration and Displacement maintains an overall list of IDPs who are receiving assistance in camps, as well as IDPs who have registered as returning to their places of origin, although there is a backlog in entering this information in the database. Information on IDPs’ locations, movements and multi-sectoral needs, both inside and outside camps, has also been gathered monthly since April 2014 (and every two months since November 2018) using IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix alongside other humanitarian sectoral needs assessments.
Over the years, humanitarian, development and peace actors have built on and expanded this operational information base to inform their programmatic work on durable solutions. While some studies and data collection tools cover wide geographical areas, others look at specific regions within Iraq to understand their unique context and dynamics. As will be described below, these diverse data sets and analysis were eventually brought together to capture a fuller picture of why displacement in Iraq had become protracted. Collectively, this knowledge has subsequently informed national efforts to develop a common strategic approach and joint programming for durable solutions.
Philippines: Disaster Displacement Data from Preparedness to Recovery
While many countries collect disaster displacement data during the immediate aftermath of a disaster,4 the Government of the Philippines has begun collecting data on potential displacement as part of its disaster preparedness activities. In the event of a disaster, it continues to monitor IDPs’ protection and assistance over time, both in the emergency phase and as part of its longer- term rehabilitation and recovery activities.
Somalia: Data and Analysis to Inform Collaborative Approaches to Finding Durable Solutions
As the focus of the Government of Somalia and the international community has shifted to finding durable solutions for IDPs after years of humanitarian assistance, data collection and analysis on internal displacement have likewise evolved to measure and monitor IDPs’ progress in resolving their displacement-specific needs. This evidence base, in turn, has contributed to the development of national and sub- national initiatives, policies and strategies on durable solutions.