Refugee Self-Reliance is More Essential than Ever in Light of Reduced U.S. Resettlement

With drastic refugee resettlement reductions likely forthcoming in the U.S., tens of thousands of refugees awaiting resettlement as a life-saving solution are now facing uncertain futures. In a world where the number of forcibly displaced people continues to grow while resettlement opportunities are becoming more scarce, it is crucial that refugees have access to other long-term solutions, such as self-reliance. 

Self-reliance programming empowers refugees to establish sustainable livelihoods, meet their own essential needs, and build fulfilling lives. Unlike short-term emergency aid, the self-reliance approach to assistance focuses on opening up opportunities for refugees to use their skills and strengths to take care of their families and contribute to the communities they live in. While traditional humanitarian systems work to provide emergency relief, RefugePoint has been developing and scaling refugee self-reliance programming for almost 20 years.

The Impact of Reduced Resettlement on Refugees

Between 2016 and 2020, the Trump Administration made sudden and drastic cuts to refugee resettlement programs in the United States. Under that administration, the refugee admissions ceiling dropped to its lowest in American history. But the U.S. isn’t alone: worldwide, countries that formerly welcomed refugees and asylum seekers with open arms are beginning to close their borders and enact more stringent policies. With this reduction in resettlement opportunities, refugees who may have hoped for a fresh start through resettlement are often left in overcrowded refugee camps or in urban areas with limited resources. 

Related: What is the difference between a refugee and an asylum seeker?

Refugee Self-Reliance Programs Make a Difference

Self-reliance programs offer refugees pathways to independence and stability by addressing essential needs such as livelihood development, education, health and nutrition, and financial empowerment. Through these initiatives, refugees gain the skills and resources to build a future for themselves and their families. 

At RefugePoint, we view our relationships with refugee clients as partnerships. RefugePoint’s Urban Refugee Protection Program (URPP), located in Nairobi, Kenya, has helped over 8,000 refugee clients and their families achieve self-reliance so far.  The URPP usesWe use a “runway” approach to self-reliance, first offering stabilizing services such as food, medical, psychosocial, and rent support, followed by business and financial education that allows refugees to thrive independently.

Beyond economic support, self-reliance programs like RefugePoint’s URPP also focus on the well-being of refugees, promoting resilience and dignity in situations where traditional support systems are scarce. By equipping refugees with the tools to support themselves, these programs help alleviate some of the challenges they face in host countries, ultimately fostering stability and security.

Related: Rosemary is working toward self-reliance with the help of her hair salon in Nairobi, Kenya

Why Self-Reliance Programs Matter More than Ever

Given that resettlement opportunities to the U.S. and other countries will likely be reduced in 2025 and beyond, self-reliance is more than just an option for many refugees—it’s a necessity. Without as many viable options for resettlement, refugees need opportunities to secure their futures where they currently reside. Self-reliance programs provide a practical pathway for achieving this goal, offering an alternative to dependency and paving the way for resilience and growth.

RefugePoint’s URPP helps refugees become active members of their communities and pursue a sustainable future. The Refugee Self-Reliance Initiative (RSRI), co-created by RefugePoint and the Women’s Refugee Commission and housed under RefugePoint, is another organization that champions refugee self-reliance. The RSRI and its partners have reached over 2 million refugees around the world with self-reliance programming.  As we face an uncertain future, self-reliance programs have never been more crucial in addressing the growing needs of displaced communities. 

Help Empower Refugees Through Self-Reliance Programs

By supporting RefugePoint’s self-reliance programs, you help empower vulnerable refugees to build independent, stable lives. Join us to ensure that refugees have the tools they need to navigate an uncertain future. Together, we can make a lasting difference.