Disaster induced displacement
Internal displacement: global overview of trends and developments in 2007
An overview of internal displacement as a result of armed conflict and violence
Authors:
Publisher:
Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre , 2008
In 2007, the estimated number of people internally displaced as a result of armed conflicts and violence
passed the 26 million mark. This annual survey of internal displacement considers specific displacement resulting from armed conflict and violence. The authors present an overview of global developments and present a series of reviews of internal displacement in Africa, the Americas, the Middle East, Asia and Europe, which presents the main issues facing IDPs in each region. Selected thematic issues, such as child recruitment, urban displacement, and development-induced forced displacement, are discussed within regional chapters.
The report has a ‘human rights-based approach’ focus. After a review of the causes and the patterns of displacements in 2007, each chapter outlines the protection risks facing IDPs, considering their rights related to physical security and integrity, the basic necessities of life, economic, social and cultural protection needs, as well as civil and political protection needs, including issues related to land and property. The particular vulnerability of displaced women and children is highlighted, as well as the range of national and international responses to displacement.
The guiding principles on internal displacement are outlined and provide the framework against which to measure the enjoyment of rights by IDPs and the fulfilment of responsibilities by national authorities and other relevant stakeholders. This report highlights the stark contrast between the protection standards which the guiding principles reaffirm and the reality experienced by victims of forced displacement.
The following areas are covered:
- extremes of vulnerability and deprivation: internal displacement in Africa
- controlling indigenous and rural majorities: internal displacement in the Americas
- political stalemates and deepening humanitarian crises: internal displacement in the Middle East
- marginalised minorities: internal displacement in Asia
- rebuilding lives in new contexts: internal displacement in Europe
