Capacity strengthening for refugee-led organizations

Refugee-led organizations play crucial roles within both refugee and host communities. These organizations are typically founded and led by individuals who have experienced displacement themselves. And they focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by refugees. The roles they play are diverse and impactful. In most cases, the leaders may not have enough leadership skills that may lead to the success of the organization. Therefore, they need capacity strengthening to grow their leadership skills, decision-making, and good practice within the organization. “In refugee situations, refugee leaders have the capacity to meet the needs of the most vulnerable and set ambitious, integrated development strategies for their communities.” This is according to the Global Compact on Refugees. 


Why capacity building for refugee organizations is key to the success of the organization? Capacity building for refugee lead-organizations is the reason for the success and effectiveness of these organizations. Here are some key reasons why capacity building is essential.

1. Organizational Sustainability:
Capacity building empowers refugee organizations to build sustainable strategies, structures, and systems. It strengthens the internal capabilities and knowledge necessary to adapt and respond to changing contexts effectively. By investing in gaining new skills, expertise, and knowledge, these organizations equip themselves to face future challenges with resilience and confidence. This capacity building leads to improved financial management, resource mobilization, and enhanced organizational leadership, enabling them to endure for the long haul. UNHCR Annual Consultations with NGOs 2019 Innovation Award

2. Enhancing Service Delivery:
Capacity building directly impacts the quality and effectiveness of the services provided by refugee organizations. Staff training and professional development programs enable employees to gain specialized skills, knowledge, and cultural sensitivity to address the unique needs and challenges of displaced populations. By developing a competent workforce, these organizations can provide better healthcare, education, psychosocial support, livelihood opportunities, and legal assistance to refugees. Increased capacity ensures that refugees receive help that meets their precise needs, fostering greater trust and facilitating their successful integration into host communities.

3. Advocacy and Policy Influence:
Strong capacity equips refugee organizations to effectively advocate for policy changes at national and international levels. Capacity building activities such as research, monitoring, and evaluation enable them to generate evidence-based advocacy and policy recommendations. With enhanced knowledge on legal frameworks, human rights, and social justice, these organizations can influence policies and practices that affect the lives of refugees. They can actively engage with governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and international bodies, thus amplifying the voice of refugees and improving their protection and support mechanisms.

4. Partnerships and Collaboration:
Capacity building fosters the creation of robust partnerships and collaboration among refugee organizations, other humanitarian entities, and local communities. By strengthening networks and partnerships, organizations can pool resources, share knowledge and expertise, and collectively address complex challenges. These collaborative efforts enhance organizational reach, impact, and sustainability through joint programs, joint fundraising, and sharing best practices. Capacity building also facilitates the exchange of experiences and learning between organizations, promoting innovation and adaptation across the sector. Firelight