12 November, Geneva – UNDP Geneva Director, Agi Veres, joined the High-Level Multistakeholder International Forum on Solutions Pathways Action Plan 2024-2029 for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Displacement-Affected Communities in  Somalia. 

This joint event, hosted by the Federal Government of Somalia, UN Somalia, and the Office of the UN Special Adviser on Solutions to Internal Displacement,  aimed to advance efforts to support the Government of Somalia’s commitment to put 1 million IDPs on a Solution Pathway. The forum highlighted the Action Plan’s focus on integrating humanitarian, peace, development, and climate agendas, aligning with Somalia’s forthcoming National Transformation Plan and Vision 2060. 

UNDP’s role centered on demonstrating its commitment to government-led, development-anchored solutions, and fostering dialogue around sustainable financing pathways to support long-term solutions for internal displacement.

On the ground, through the Saameynta UN joint programme implemented by UNDP, UN-Habitat and IOM, funded notably by the Government of Switzerland, UNDP has been supporting local authorities in three cities of Baidoa, Beledweyne and Bossaso to better respond to urban displacement with a focus on improved livelihoods and economic revitalization. Moving forward UNDP is focused on supporting area-based approaches that link early recovery and stabilization initiatives with prevention and solutions to internal displacement.

More Examples of UNDP’s Ongoing Initiatives and Contributions:

1. Strategic Contributions and Capacity Building
Through the leadership of the Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO) and collaboration with the Office of the Special Envoy, UNDP has helped develop Local Economic Development Plans, supported the security sector in rule of law and peacebuilding, and established an area-based approach for displacement solutions.

2. Partnership in the Internal Displacement Solutions Fund (IDSF)
As a partner in the new Internal Displacement Solutions Fund (IDSF), UNDP supports national priorities for durable solutions with initial funding of USD 12 million from Switzerland, Norway, the United Kingdom, and Germany. UNDP’s contributions focus on data analysis, economic assessments, and private sector engagement.

3. Governance and Development Support
Aligned with Somalia’s development goals, UNDP also supports governance and development frameworks at all levels, including:

•    Establishing data systems like the SDG tracker to drive policy and inclusive growth,
•    Supporting the constitutional review and creating Somalia’s National Climate Change Policy, Environmental Strategy, and Justice Sector Strategy.

4. Area-Based Integrated Stabilization Program (ABIP)
Through ABIP, UNDP promotes stability in areas affected by displacement, with efforts like rebuilding essential facilities in Hudur, Southwest Somalia. This foundation supports long-term stability and economic recovery for communities.

Through these efforts, UNDP Somalia remains dedicated to advancing durable solutions for displacement-affected communities in partnership with Somali authorities, contributing to a stable and prosperous future for IDPs and Displacement Affected Communities.