Expanding Development Approaches to Refugees and Their Hosts in Ethiopia

Ethiopia hosts nearly one million refugees, primarily from South Sudan, Somalia, Eritrea, and Sudan, making it one of the largest refugee-hosting countries in Africa. While the country has implemented progressive refugee policies, including the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) and the 2019 Refugee Proclamation, significant challenges remain in translating these policies into improved socio-economic outcomes for refugees. Most refugees reside in camps and face barriers to employment, education, and self-reliance.

This report, based on the Socio-Economic Survey of Refugees in Ethiopia (SESRE), provides a comprehensive analysis of the demographic, economic, and social conditions of refugees and their host communities. The findings highlight key disparities in education, employment, and living standards between refugees and host populations. While primary school enrolment rates are similar for both groups, secondary school attendance among refugees is significantly lower. Employment rates are also lower for refugees, particularly for those living in camps, where reliance on humanitarian aid is high. Refugees in urban settings experience better employment outcomes but often face occupational downgrading.

The report underscores the need for policy interventions that enhance refugee mobility, labour market participation, and economic integration while supporting host communities. Recommendations include improving access to education and healthcare, expanding work opportunities for refugees, and promoting place-based development strategies to benefit both refugees and hosts. By adopting a more inclusive and development-oriented approach, Ethiopia can maximise the economic and social benefits of hosting refugees while reducing long-term dependence on humanitarian aid.