Migration, Refugees, Displacement,
and People on the Move
Understanding Global Mobility
Today, the number of people living outside their country of birth is unprecedented. Some migrate voluntarily, seeking better economic opportunities, safety, or an improved quality of life. Conflict, persecution, environmental disasters, or human rights abuses forcibly displace others.
In 2020, there were approximately 281 million international migrants globally—3.6% of the world population. This represents a dramatic increase compared to previous decades, and climate changes threaten further increases. Among forcibly displaced people, nearly half are children, and developing countries host 85% of the world’s refugees. The movement of people, whether voluntary or forced, profoundly shapes societies worldwide, with significant social, economic, and political implications.
Migration and Displacement: Opportunities and Challenges
Migration unlocks opportunities for individuals and communities: access to employment, skill development, and improved living conditions. For countries of origin and destination, migrants contribute to economic growth and cultural enrichment.
However, these benefits coexist with significant challenges. Many migrants and displaced people face systemic inequalities, discrimination, legal barriers, and human rights violations. Forced displacement uproots families, exacerbates vulnerabilities, and creates urgent humanitarian needs. The toll on hosting communities can be overwhelming without proper funding and support.
Who Are People on the Move?
Voluntary Migrants: Individuals who move for reasons such as work, education, family reunification, or improved living conditions.
Refugees: Persons forced to flee their countries due to persecution, conflict, or violence, protected under international law.
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): People displaced within their own countries due to conflict or disasters.
Asylum Seekers: Individuals seeking international protection but whose refugee status has not yet been determined.
Stateless Persons: Those not recognised as nationals by any state, facing legal invisibility and exclusion.
Each group experiences unique challenges and needs, requiring tailored responses that respect their rights and dignity.
International Frameworks and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The 2030 Agenda recognises migration and displacement in 11 of 17 SDGs, seeking to “leave no one behind.” It promotes safe, orderly, and regular migration (Goal 10.7) alongside combating trafficking, protecting refugees, and supporting displaced persons. International legal instruments such as the 1951 Refugee Convention and the Global Compact for Migration guide protection and cooperation efforts.
Inclusive Approaches to Migration and Displacement
Inclusive migration recognises the diversity and dignity of all people on the move. It challenges exclusionary narratives and policies by:
Protecting human rights regardless of migratory status
Addressing intersecting vulnerabilities such as gender, age, disability, ethnicity, and legal status
Promoting social inclusion and equal access to services, education, and labour markets
Facilitating the participation of migrants and displaced persons in decision-making that affects their lives
Key Focus Areas:
International migration, refugee law, and human rights protection
Analysis of policies and practices affecting displaced and mobile populations
Intersectional barriers, including discrimination, legal exclusion, and socio-economic marginalisation
Our Activities
Knowledge Generation:
Producing research, policy briefs, blogs, and webinars that illuminate the complex realities of people on the move.
Collaboration:
Building partnerships with organisations working across migration and displacement sectors to amplify impact.
Capacity Building:
Equipping partners and internal teams with the skills and knowledge to implement inclusive, rights-based approaches.
Advocacy:
Promoting the rights and inclusion of migrants, refugees, and displaced persons within development and humanitarian frameworks.
Safe Space:
Providing a supportive environment where members share insights, challenges, and innovations.
Join Us in Advancing Inclusive Migration and Displacement Solutions
With global mobility reaching historic levels, the need for just, inclusive, and effective responses has never been greater. Includovate is committed to advancing evidence-based, intersectional, and participatory approaches that respect the dignity and rights of all people on the move.
