Internal displacement is a global phenomenon. In 2017, there were 30.6 million new internal displacements associated with conflict, violence and disasters. Internal displacement uproots people within their own countries, often at a moment’s notice, depriving them of their homes, jobs, basic services and social connections. It often makes them more vulnerable to armed attacks, abuse, and discrimination.
The Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement were established 20 years ago to provide a framework for the protection and assistance to internally displaced people.
While the Guiding Principles have helped to raise awareness and address internal displacement, much remains to be done. Unacceptable numbers of people are still displaced each year, and more and more people live in situations of prolonged displacement with no solution in sight.
Responsibility for addressing the plight of IDPs lies primarily with states. But to do this, states will need international support, including rec…
