It's Not a Centre, It's Home

This report explores the dynamics of child marriage in rural Sierra Leone: A Qualitative Study of the Socio-Economic and Cultural Implications.

Türkiye hosts the world’s largest population of persons under temporary and international protection, with over 3.65 million Syrians under temporary protection. As of May 2023, Türkiye was hosting 3.4 million Syrian refugees of which nearly half are children and 46% are women and girls. The country has seen significant increases in commodity prices, particularly food and energy, alongside inflation and the depreciation of the Turkish lira, leading to poverty rates surpassing pre- 2019 levels. These socio-economic challenges have put a strain on community relations, consequently inciting growing anti-refugee sentiments. The approach to the 2023 elections has seen refugee issues becoming a focal point of political discourse, prompting the government to consider adopting more stringent policies.

Jordan is recognized for its stability in a turbulent region. The country hosts over 1.3 million Syrian refugees - representing nearly 15% of Jordan’s total population - making it the second-highest host country of refugees per capita in the world. Jordan has demonstrated a commitment to providing refuge for those fleeing conflict. While not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention, Jordan has maintained a favourable protection environment for refugees, ensuring fundamental human rights through national frameworks. The country has also included refugees in critical sectors such as education, health care, and even the national COVID-19 health response and vaccination program. However, the protracted nature of the Syrian Crisis and regional dynamics have strained Jordan’s resources and infrastructure. Since 2015, The government-led Jordan Response Plan (JRP) has helped guide the partnership between the country and the international community as it responds to the Syrian Crisis in Jordan. Jordan’s policy towards refugees has mainly been inclusive, with the government taking steps to provide free work permits to Syrian refugees and adjusting the legal framework for Syrian-owned home-based businesses. Despite these positive steps, challenges remain, especially in employment where women and youth are disproportionately affected. The 2023 strategic objectives emphasize humanitarian-development coherence, reinforcing protection principles, and aligning with Jordan’s development goals. The focus is on integrating the needs of all vulnerable populations into national recovery plans, enhancing self-reliance, and building the capacity of national institutions. The aim is to transition the refugee population to economic opportunities, strengthen data analysis for evidencebased planning, and ensure refugee inclusion in national systems.

Read inspiring stories of children across Middle East and Eastern Europe countries, whose lives were changed after they got enrolled in Sponsorship programme. Their example shows how fundamental support and care forever transforms lives of the next generation.