This project, an extension of the “Youth-Driven Solutions: Empowering Peace through Refugee Solutions in the Indian Ocean Region,” focused on understanding the plight of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in Tamil Nadu, India. These individuals, displaced by Sri Lanka’s ethnic conflict and civil war, reside in camps managed by the Indian government and UNHCR, facing complex socio-economic challenges.
Field research was the cornerstone of the initiative. Over several days, the project team conducted interviews with refugees, despite stringent and logistical hurdles. These interviews shed light on their lived experiences, aspirations, and the systemic barriers they face. Language barriers were mitigated with translation support, ensuring comprehensive data collection.
Key outputs included a detailed report submitted to stakeholders and a published article aimed at raising public awareness. The project also highlighted refugee issues on international platforms, advocating for sustainable solutions and better policies.
The project’s impact was multifaceted. It fostered empathy by showcasing refugee stories, enriched peacebuilding dialogues in Sri Lanka, and strengthened cross-border advocacy for refugee rights. Furthermore, it inspired young leaders to address displacement issues and enhanced collaboration among community representatives.
Despite challenges like cultural divides and logistical complexities, the project laid a foundation for future interventions. Its findings continue to inform efforts to support refugee reintegration and reconciliation, demonstrating the power of grassroots initiatives in fostering regional peace and understanding.
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