Multisector reponse to the migrant crisis in Colombia - Development and Peace 2022

March 2022 - More than 5.3 million people have fled Venezuela since 2015. Many of them reside in Colombia but others are in transit in Colombia to countries such as Ecuador and Peru. The refugee and migrant crisis continues to create significant humanitarian needs in Colombia while also exacerbating the effects of long-standing violence and armed conflict. Populations with acute humanitarian needs including refugees and migrants have also been significantly affected by the coronavirus pandemic. With support from GAC Development and Peace is helping to improve the ability of migrants and refugees to meet their basic needs. The project promotes access to safe and appropriate housing as well as improved knowledge of the process of regularizing migratory status and preventing risks associated with migration in the departments of Narino Norte de Santander and Valle del Cauca in Colombia. Project activities include: (1) providing unconditional multi-purpose cash transfers to vulnerable Venezuelan migrants to cover their basic needs; (2) providing free accommodation services that are safe and appropriate for vulnerable Venezuelan migrants; and (3) providing psychological and legal counselling to vulnerable Venezuelan migrants.

The expected outcomes of this project include: (1) improved access to assistance for vulnerable Venezuelan migrants to meet their basic human needs; and (2) improved access to health and protection for vulnerable Venezuelan migrant women. The ultimate outcome is lives saved suffering alleviated and human dignity preserved in countries facing humanitarian crises or acute food insecurity.