Peacebuilding to address forced migration

Across the globe, people are on the move—not by choice, but by necessity. 117 million people have been forcibly displaced from their homes due to conflict, climate disasters, persecution, or economic crises. This is a huge – and growing – number, and it underscores the urgent need for action. 

The roots of forced migration are complex and interconnected. Conflict and climate change are two main causes. Communities are impacted by violence, and natural disasters devastate livelihoods, leaving people with no choice but to seek safety and stability elsewhere. Most of these displaced individuals remain within their own countries, some cross borders to neighboring states, but very few have the opportunity to return home or find a permanent safe haven.

Traditional responses to conflict often involve military interventions, but these measures can worsen tensions rather than resolve them. Local organizations and communities know from experience that military interventions frequently deepen divisions and prolong conflicts. Instead, they advocate for peacebuilding initiatives that address the underlying causes of conflict and displacement.

Peacebuilding work by MCC partners in communities worldwide focuses on preventing, reducing, or halting violence. These initiatives aim to improve relationships within communities and with those in power. MCC partners consistently emphasize that migration should be a choice, not a necessity. No one should be forced to flee their home.

Supporting local peacebuilding efforts is an effective approach for tackling the root causes of forced migration, as well as addressing other impacts of conflict. Given the escalating numbers of forcibly displaced people, we believe that Canada should allocate more funding towards the transformative power of peacebuilding. 

By investing in peacebuilding, Canada can help create a world where people are not compelled to leave their homes out of desperation but can choose to move freely and safely.