Those working in areas of conflict are inevitably faced with issues surrounding migration. In delicate contexts and situations involving ongoing crises, it is especially necessary to alleviate acute hardship and make a long-lasting contribution to the inclusion of migrants in society. Nevertheless, the challenges of this field of work are complex, which may be a result of increased mobility and an urban environment. This is illustrated by an example of Caritas Switzerland’s work in Colombia.

Over the course of an ongoing conflict in their own country lasting more than 50 years, upward of seven million people have been forced to flee their homes. Even after the Colombian government and the FARC signed a peace deal in late 2016, this expulsion still continues. Many of those affected move to cities and urban centers, where they continue to face violence from criminal gangs and armed groups in addition to unemployment and poverty. To protect their children from recruitment, abuse, and illegal dealings, many families are forced time and time again to seek refuge in other districts and cities. These repeated expulsions ruin the chance for teenagers and young adults to earn money and receive an education.

Working with local partners at the interface of emergency aid and long-term work, Caritas Switzerland actively fosters the peaceful integration of internally displaced persons, focusing on social, psychological, legal and political support for young people in violent urban areas. Young adults are also given ac-cess to vocational training and the chance to generate income. Conflict- and gender-sensitive approaches are crucial in this respect. By promoting youth organizations embedded in the local community and a vast network of various actors, the project has the aim of making a sustainable impact in this volatile environment.