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Durable Solutions: Challenges With Implementing Global Norms For Internally Displaced Persons In Georgia (Forced Migration 44)

Charles Reed

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## **Challenges With Implementing Global Norms For Internally Displaced Persons In**

Abstract: This paper examines the challenges of implementing global norms for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the context of protracted displacement. It argues that the existing international legal framework for IDPs is inadequate and that there is a need for a more comprehensive and binding international treaty. The paper also discusses the role of national governments and civil society organizations in implementing global norms for IDPs.

Durable Solutions: Challenges with Implementing Global Norms for Internally Displaced Persons in Georgia (Forced Migration Book 44)

by Carolin Funke

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	466 pages

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Internally displaced persons (IDPs) are individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence, or natural disasters but who have not crossed an international bFree Download. IDPs are often vulnerable to human rights abuses and exploitation, and they face significant challenges in accessing basic services and livelihoods.

The international community has recognized the need to protect and assist IDPs, and has adopted a number of global norms to address their needs. These norms include the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, which were adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1998. The Guiding Principles set out a comprehensive framework for protecting and assisting IDPs, and they have been widely endorsed by governments and international organizations.

Despite the existence of these global norms, there are significant challenges to their implementation. These challenges include:

Lack of political will: Many governments are reluctant to implement the Guiding Principles because they fear that ng so will undermine their sovereignty or lead to increased migration.
Lack of resources: Implementing the Guiding Principles requires significant financial and human resources, which many governments do not have.
Lack of capacity: Many governments lack the capacity to implement the Guiding Principles effectively. This is particularly true in countries that are experiencing conflict or political instability.
Lack of accountability: There is no international mechanism to hold governments accountable for failing to implement the Guiding Principles.

## **The Need for a Binding Treaty**

The existing international legal framework for IDPs is inadequate. The Guiding Principles are not legally binding, and they are not enforceable in domestic courts. This means that governments can ignore the Guiding Principles with impunity. There is a need for a more comprehensive and binding international treaty that would set out clear obligations for governments to protect and assist IDPs.

A binding treaty would help to address the challenges of implementing global norms for IDPs. It would provide a clear legal framework for governments to follow, and it would create a mechanism for holding governments accountable for their actions. A binding treaty would also help to raise awareness of the plight of IDPs, and it would put pressure on governments to take action to address their needs.

## **The Role of National Governments**

National governments have the primary responsibility for protecting and assisting IDPs. They must implement the Guiding Principles and other relevant international standards. National governments must also develop and implement national laws and policies that protect and assist IDPs. These laws and policies should cover a range of issues, including:

Prevention of displacement: National governments should take steps to prevent displacement, such as by addressing the root causes of conflict and violence.
Protection of IDPs: National governments must protect IDPs from human rights abuses and exploitation. This includes providing them with access to food, water, shelter, and medical care.
Assistance to IDPs: National governments must provide IDPs with assistance to help them rebuild their lives. This includes providing them with access to education, employment, and housing.
Durable solutions for IDPs: National governments must work to find durable solutions for IDPs, such as by helping them to return home, integrate locally, or resettle in another country.

## **The Role of Civil Society Organizations**

Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a vital role in protecting and assisting IDPs. CSOs can provide direct assistance to IDPs, such as by providing them with food, water, shelter, and medical care. CSOs can also advocate for the rights of IDPs and monitor the implementation of global norms.

CSOs can play a particularly important role in countries where the government is unwilling or unable to protect and assist IDPs. In these countries, CSOs can provide essential services to IDPs and help to hold the government accountable for its actions.

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The challenges of implementing global norms for internally displaced persons are significant. However, these challenges can be overcome with the commitment of national governments, civil society organizations, and the international community. A binding treaty on IDPs would be a major step forward in protecting and assisting IDPs and ensuring their rights.

## **References**

Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, United Nations General Assembly, 1998.
IDMC, Global Report on Internal Displacement 2020, 2020.
UNHCR, IDP Facts and Figures, 2020.

Durable Solutions: Challenges with Implementing Global Norms for Internally Displaced Persons in Georgia (Forced Migration Book 44)

by Carolin Funke

4.6 out of 5