Examining livelihood strategies of urban refugees through sustainable livelihoods perspective: A focus on Eritrean and Somali refugees in Addis Ababa

Abstract

AbstractThe unprecedented influx of forced migrants into Ethiopia and the number of urban refugees in cities have gained increasing attention in intellectual and humanitarian circles. This study employs a sustainable livelihood framework to gain insight into the livelihood strategies of refugees residing in Addis Ababa. Using 20 in-depth interviews, 10 key informant interviews, and four focus group discussions, this study scrutinized the livelihood strategies of Somali and Eritrean refugees in the city. The interviews and focus group discussions were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed. Remarkably, this research demonstrates that the primary sources of income for these refugees were international aid, remittances, wages, self-employment, and support from families and acquaintances. High living expenses, acculturation issues, diminished self-worth, emotional instability and mobility, economic hardships, conflict, security issues, violence, theft, and robbery were identified as the main sociocultural and financial challenges to their livelihoods. The existence of beneficial policy frameworks and the shared cultural heritage of the host community and urban refugees indicate opportunities for their integration. This study provides insights for humanitarian and government agencies and future research that focuses on sustainable urban refugee livelihoods.

Keywords

• refugees
• urban refugees
• livelihood
• Somali refugees
• Eritrean refugee