ThematicSectionMigration-ForcedDisplacementSection

Thematic Section Migration & Forced Displacement Section

All Swiss International Cooperation instruments consider migration and forced displacement in their programs. Yet, the Migration and Forced Displacement Section serves as the thematic competency centre for whole SDC. It has a specialized mandate to enhance the safety, well-being and livelihood prospects of vulnerable and disadvantaged migrants, their families, with a view to minimising the individual and societal costs of migration, and fully unlocking the development impact of migration. The section strives to work with a full range of stakeholders in countries of origin and destination to shape policies conclusive to migrants’ protection and empowerment. Thereby the section is dedicated to a comprehensive and human rights-based as well as gender-equality approach.

The section works along three strategic components:

Migrants have access to decent work and are protected along the entire migration cycle.

1.1 Labour migration governance at the global, regional and national level is strengthened, evidence-based and more gender-responsive.

1.2 Migrants and forcibly displaced persons have access to decent work and are protected along the migration cycle.

1.3 Private sector actors and employers undertake targeted efforts to improve working conditions for migrants and forcibly displaced persons (including in the field of fair and ethical recruitment, skills development and recognition).

Migrants, including displaced persons and host communities, have access to inclusive basic services and socioeconomic inclusion opportunities, especially in urban contexts.

2.1 Urban migration, including durable solutions, is a key theme in global policy dialogue related to migration and the voice of cities is leveraged.

2.2 Partner cities, local governments and host communities manage challenges and leverage opportunities arising from migration to cities for sustainable and inclusive development.

2.3 Migrants and forcibly displaced persons, as well as host communities, benefit from equitable service provision and opportunities that support socio-economic inclusion at the local level.

Migrants contribute to the sustainable development of their countries of origin through the transfer of remittances, investments, know-how, and social capital.

3.1 Strengthened framework conditions enabling the socio-economic and policy contributions of migrants’ and diaspora communities to sustainable development.

3.2 Diaspora communities have increased their socio-economic contributions in their country of origin

3.3 Migrants and their families display enhanced financial inclusion and have better opportunities to invest remittances in productive purposes and improving their livelihoods.

The section's unique value proposition:

Whole-of-government approach (WOGA): Integration of different perspectives on Switzerland's foreign policy on migration, the humanitarian-development-peace nexus and policy coherence in international migration cooperation;
Multi-stakeholder approach: The section has a strong dedication to bring together national governments, cities, the private sector and civil society
Elevator approach: Engagement from the local level up to the global level and the explicit linking of operational and policy dialogue activities
Corridor approach: Engagement along migration routes by linking activities in different countries
Innovation: A flexible and adaptable approach allows agility, considers risk-taking and quick reaction to crisis situation.