IDP PROFILING - SOMALIA
Desk Review Report
Draft version – 15 September 2006
1. Background
1.1
IDP Profiling Initiative
Poor access to the vast majority of the displaced has contributed to a lack of a common
understanding of the situation of the internally displaced in Somalia. Key information, which
is required to ensure that informed and targeted interventions provide protection, assistance
and make certain the move towards durable solutions where possible, is severely lacking.
While many surveys have been conducted, primarily in Somaliland/NW Somalia and
Puntland/NE Somalia, during the past three years, they vary in quality, detail, type of
information collected.
The IASC Working Group in June 2004 agreed on the need to develop an inter-agency famework of system-wide collection and analysis of IDP-related information. The IASC Policy
Package adopted in September 2004 also provides for a system-wide and cross-sectoral
collection of information on IDPs by Country Teams. In 2005 it became clear that, in order to
systematize data collection by the various governmental and non-governmental actors
responsible for the welfare of IDPs, guidance in data collection methodologies and IDP
profiling would make the task easier for everyone concerned. Guidelines on How to Profile
Internally Displaced persons have been recently drafted by IDMC and published by the
IASC.
The Somalia UNCT/IASC agreed on testing the guidelines and recommendations to obtain a
clearer picture of the situation of IDPs in Somalia.
Following a mission to Somalia in February 2006, by the IDD/NRC consultant, initial
guidelines and recommendations have been provided for the Somali context1.
Therefore, a Danish Refugee Council Secondment to the Protection/IDP Cluster, specifically
working with UNHCR Somalia, was requested as a first stage in the completion of a
Literature/Desk Review of existing data and documentation on IDPs in Somalia.
The profiling exercise is intended as a collaborative inter-agency activity. The basic concept
has been agreed to by the Protection/IDP Working Group.
1.2
IDP Profiling in the context of Somalia
Somalia has been chosen as one of the first countries to test the IASC draft global guidelines
on profiling IDPs. While certainly providing interesting feedbacks to the global process, it
has to be stressed that Somalia context is quite peculiar, thus demanding a very contextspecific IDP profiling initiative.
Some of the elements which characterise the Somali context are the following:
The key document to guide the profiling exercise is the ‘Profiling IDPs in Somalia, Concept paper’, Anne Davies,
IDMC, March 2006
1
1
 Weak Central State Structures:
Central State structures have been totally absent from 1991 until October 2004, when the
Transitional Federal Government was constituted; nowadays negotiations over the future
set-up of the country are on going between the TFG and the Islamic Courts Union, which
succeeded in bringing control over Mogadishu and the neighbouring regions.
Exceptions are represented by Somaliland, which unilaterally declared independence in
1991 and since then has continued to make process in maintaning peace and stability, and
by Puntland, which declared itself an autonomous regional state of Somalia in 1998.
 Strong role of the Traditional Structures (traditional leaders, customary law xeer):
A role which has been consolidated by the absence/weakness of Central Authorities;
Somali traditional leaders can potentially play a potential stronger role in conflict
resolution and peace-building all over the country.
 Extensive social stratification of the Somali society:
In spite of its reputation for homogeneity, the Somali society is characterized by an
extensive socio-ethnic stratification with considerable implications, especially for
individual belonging to minority groups.
 Nomadic feature of the Somali society:
Population movement is a common and often ‘normal’ feature of Somali society, mainly
pastoral and agropastoral-based; movement is often a coping stratey itself.
 Constant/multiple displacement:
Throughout the years, conflicts and natural disasters have caused continuous waves of
forced movements, creating often multiple layers of displacement, over time and space.
The migration of ‘push’ (of conflict, drought and flood) and ‘pull’ (of economic
opportunities, aid resources, and social network connection) has fundamentally altered the
ethnic composition of the area affecting everything from access to fertile agricultural
land, land tenure and ownership rights, fluidity of political and clan factional alliances,
access to the resources of aid2.
In addition, return movements to the country, characterised by a sometimes difficult
reintegration, and rural-urban drift in search of new or better livelihoods are adding
further layers to the picture.
 Limited access to many areas:
Due to persistent instability and conflicts, access to many areas in South/Central Somalia
has been quite restricted, Mogadishu being the only capital in the world with no UN
International presence.
 General fatigue towards assessments by humanitarian agencies:
This element is quite common to many other humanitarian contexts, but in Somalia is
specifically stronger because of the limited response following needs assessments.
These and other elements need to be taken into consideration when planning any intervention
in Somalia, including the IDP profiling initiative
2
Livelihood and protection study of IDPs and vulnerable communities in Kismaayo ”Simon Narbeth, OCHA, 2003
2
2. Profiling: Main Objectives and Approach
The IDP profiling is first of all a protection tool. As recognized in the Humanitarian
Response Review, the main ‘protection gap’ in humanitarian response worldwide relates to
IDPs. While the problem is apparent, it has to be quantified and qualified in order to be
appropriately addressed3.
The overall objective of the IDP Profiling Initiative in Somalia is:
 Reaching a common and comprehensive understanding of the IDPs situation in
Somalia, protection and assistance needs
The specific objectives are the following:
 Improving the knowledge on the extent and pattern of displacement in Somalia,
understanding the different levels and situations of displacement;
 Contributing to the design of programmes meeting basic needs and addressing the
more underlying protection related problems, through identification of entry points
over the short and long term.
Specifically, the Somalia IDP profiling initiative aims at gaining a better understanding over
the following issues:
- pattern of displacement: causes of displacement, where from and to, multiple
displacements over time and space;
- main protection risks: which groups (age/gender/diversity) are more exposed to
identified protection risks; how the location of the camp or/and the type of
settlement can have an impact on the risk level;
- locally available capacity to protect and assist;
- options for durable solutions.
A holistic approach will be adopted, enabling analysis over time and space.
This approach will enable taking into consideration the regional context as well: in fact
internal displacement analysis shall be placed in a wider environment characterised by
various push and pull factors, impacting the internal situation as well.
The IDP Profiling Initiative is intended as a collaborative inter-agency activity, requesting a
cohesive coordinated approach, and contributing to joint programming initiatives currently
underway and planned.
The IDP analysis will have to be contextualised in oder to understand underlying political
economic and social processes, and their impact level. This may serve multiple purposes
when it comes to deciding whether to intervene or not and designing programmes.
As Somalia has been chosen as the first country where the Draft Guidelines on How to Profile
IDPs are going to be tested, inputs and lessons learnt will feedback into the global process
providing significant contribution to the further development.
3
Guidelines on How to Profile Internally Displaced Persons, IDMC, draft IASC publication, 2006
3
3. Desk Review
The Somalia UNCT/IASC agreed on the need to conduct as a first step a full desk review of
existing data in order to take stock of information already available, to review the gaps that
need particular attention and later focus a separate profiling exercise on those areas.
The desk review and the actual profiling exercise are thus to be considered as complementary
activities.
The desk review was conducted during the period June-August 2006.
Relevant IDPs surveys and reports have been collected and analysed, thanks to the support of
international and national actors, enabling mapping out the existing information and
identification of gaps. While focus has been given in collecting documents produced in the
last two/three years, few relevant reports produced in 2002 were taken into consideration as
well.
The main methodology which was applied in consulted surveys was survey sampling, with a
combination of focus group discussions and household interviews. In some cases head count
was applied as well.
Total Sources by Age
8%
6%
4%
2006
2005
2004
22%
60%
2003
2002
Total Sources By Type
1%
27%
UN
INGO
LNGO
60%
12%
Others
Please, see Annex no. 1 “IDP Library Sources” for consulted documents.
4
Several meetings have been held with various actors of the humanitarian community as well
as with Authorities, in Nairobi and in Somalia, on the IDPs strategy, on going programmes
and on how the IDP profiling can contribute to a better understanding and planning of
interventions.
3.1
Mapping available information
The Protection/IDP working Group in Nairobi agreed that the best way to have a clear
overview of the existing information was to map out the main available data into matrixes.
Matrixes with detailed situation per IDP settlement were created per regional zone
(Somaliland, Puntland and South/Central), facilitating a comprehensive overview and
agencies operational use.
Please, see Annex no. 2 “IDP/other groups Settlements Matrix”, Somaliland, Puntland and
South/Central.
Giving the range in the period of the collected reports for the desk review (last two/three
years), it was immediately evident that some of the gathered documentation was not fully
updated, thus of limited operational relevance. Efforts were made on trying to “mobilise”
agencies operational on the field to share their information and verify the collected one.
All sources of information have been quoted, at the bottom of each zone matrix, as well as
inside the matrix itself through inserted comments at each settlement level (please refer to the
shared electronic version4).
This was done in order to facilitate various stakeholders, inside and outside Somalia, who
might need more information, to refer to a specific quoted report or a specific agency for
more details.
As well, at this stage it was not feasible to give confidence levels to the various sources, but
any information contained in available documents or provided by reliable coordination
mechanisms was reported.
When on a same issue a difference in data was observed from one report compared to
another, especially on IDPs estimates, the various data were reported, allowing for
comparison and further reference5
It has to be pointed out that the matrix does not aim at validating any agency finding, but at
reporting the available information.
The matrix does not provide new estimates but it reviews the available data.
It does provide entry points, but not a comprehensive overview of the situation.
In order to ensure that all actors were involved in the process and could provide
feedbacks/comments/verification, draft matrixes per zone were presented and circulated to
the various IDP/Protection Working Groups in the field (Somaliland, Puntland,
Mogadishu/South Central) and to other relevant actors, enabling cross-checking and
triangulations.
As most of the available information contained in received reports referred to some months, if
not 1- or 2-year-old situation, the IDP/protection WG members were asked to verify but as
well to update the information as of July 2006.
4
In the shared electronic version of the matrixes, main sources per each settlement are quoted in the comment
inserted in the cell with the name of the settlement; in addition, other cells contained references to specific sources.
5
As recommended by the Guidelines on How to Profile Internally Displaced Persons, IDMC, draft IASC
publication, 2006.
5
Linking with the on going Population Movement Tracking Initiative (managed by UNHCR)
was ensured: updated data were inserted in the matrix whenever possible; otherwise a note on
recent movement was included at the bottom of each region matrix.
The initiative aimed at providing a ‘snapshot’ of the situation on a given date and at
indicating the nature and method of work that needs to be undertaken in the longer-term, as
recommended by the IDP Profiling Guidelines – draft version6.
The revision of the information contained in the matrix is on going by various agencies.
UNHCR will keep managing the revision process for the next period and will ensure regular
updating on a 3-month interval.
3.2
Gaps analysis
Mapping available information in matrixes contributed to clearly point out how complex and
diversified the displacement situation is, even settlement by settlement, and specifically to
identify/visualize main gaps.
While the level, quantity and quality of available data on IDP settlements per each area and
per each district consistently differ from each other, some common gaps were identified:
6
7

Focus has so far be given to IDPs living in clearly identified settlements, while very
limited assessment has been done in mixed areas, especially rural;

Limited accurate estimates on the total number of people living in a specific
settlement/location, and specifically limited disaggregated estimates on the number of
IDPs compared to other vulnerable groups sharing the same location;

Lack of disaggregated data per age and gender;

Limited geographical/spatial data on exact IDP settlement location, with no
standardised reference system (GPS, various reference grids);
locating existing IDP settlement on a map can contribute to an integrated analysis
with Food and Security mechanisms, as well as with Population Movement Tracking
reports, following up on fresh displacement and contributing to an early
warning
system;

Limited information on protection risks and related analysis; specifically,
age/gender/diversity analysis has been quite limited;

Limited analysis on how socio-ethnic divisions affect access to economic capital
(such as employment opportunities) that, in turn, affects the degree of access (or
reinforces the lack of access) to education and health facilities7;

Lack of information on the area where the IDP settlements are located or, when
available, lack of integrated analysis which could allow to understand, for example,
the location-related impact on the risk level;
Guidelines on How to Profile Internally Displaced Persons, IDMC, draft IASC publication, 2006
“Livelihood and protection study of IDPs and vulnerable communities in Kismaayo ”Simon Narbeth, OCHA, 2003
6

Limited link of IDPs surveys/assessments with livelihood, food security analysis and
nutrition surveys conducted by FSAU, UNICEF and other agencies; FSAU has set up
baseline data per livelihood zone, with indicators on poverty/wealth ranking, coping
mechanisms, which can be applied with some adjustments to an IDP analysis as well;

Lack of integrated analysis on IDP place of origin, trying to understand the
possibilities of a peaceful sustainable return, when and if voluntary chosen by IDPs8.
Some of the mentioned information gaps are due to the highly volatile security situation
characterising Somalia since 1991, specifically the South/Central area, and to the consequent
limited access.
Further, accessing and working in an IDP settlement means having to deal with the
gatekeepers, who can further limit the access “space”.
Generally, all surveys faced the same difficulty: how to understand and thus distinguish who
is an IDP and who is not.
As well, limited analysis has been so far conducted trying to understand how protracted IDPs
do cope with the situation compared to newly displaced, if for example different coping
mechanisms are in place.
One of the main challenges relies on the fact that beyond the time limit (new or protracted
displacement) focus has to be given on their assessed specific vulnerability.
3.2.1 Somaliland
Information on settlements in Somaliland have been provided by various assessments
conducted by different humanitarian agencies (UN agencies, INGOs and LNGOs), with some
data coming from Hargeisa Authorities.
The IDP matrix for Somaliland was updated and verified by the Somaliland IDP working
Group during August 2006.
Som aliland Sources by Age
12%
6%
2006
2005
53%
29%
2004
2002
 Information available per region:
Galbeed Region:
All IDP settlements in Hargeisa (Galbeed region) have been surveyed by one or more
humanitarian agencies in the last four years, often providing a quite comprehensive overview
Only one consulted IDP survey, “Livelihood and protection study of IDPs and vulnerable communities in
Kismaayo ” by Simon Narbeth, integrated the analysis on current displacement vulnerabilities in Kismaayo with the
IDPs place of origin situation.
8
7
of the situation; still, the protection analysis can be improved, distinguishing the various
groups’ protection risks and highlighting their coping mechanisms.
In Berbera, a participatory rural appraisal was implemented by UNICEF in Jaamalye
settlement (cluster of settlements) in 2005, and a nutrition survey was conducted by FSAU
and partners during 2006. Basic data are available, but as for Hargeisa the protection analysis
needs to be improved.
Togdheer Region9:
In Burao, while for Kossar settlement basic information have been collected through various
surveys10, few data are available for the other settlements, such as Aden Suliman, Ali Hussein
and especially 15 May.
In addition, several minor IDPs settlements have been reported by LNGOs in Burao, such as
October settlement, where no survey has so far been conducted.
Awdal Region:
IDP settlements are reported in Borama area, but limited specific updated information is
available
Sanaag and Sool Regions11:
A certain number of IDPs from within the regions are reported; for example in Erigavo,
Sanaag, some IDPs fled their original land for clan conflicts, their land was occupied but they
are now gradually returning home thanks to the conflict resolution activities (conducted by
the Governor of Sanaag and NGO Haqsoor)
No information on scattered IDPs throughout Somaliland is yet available, but it has to be
mentioned that efforts have been made by Hargeisa authorities trying to identify and localise
these specific groups inside the district
 Somaliland main identified elements
a) Settlements Caseloads and estimates:
The majority of settlements in Somaliland are clearly inhabited by a mixed caseload:
returnees from abroad (often the reported majority in the settlements12), IDPs from within
Somaliland, IDPS from South/Central Somalia, Ethiopian nationals, urban poor.
Average estimates generally relate to the total population of the settlements (in some of
the settlements in Hargeisa a percentage per caseload is reported); estimates can vary
considerably as in the case of Kossar settlement (Burao).
Main clan composition of settlements have been quite easily identified.
b) Patterns of Displacement:
The main pattern of displacement are the following:
- IDPs from South/Central Somalia, mainly displaced by conflict but as well by natural
disasters as droughts and floods (mainly nomads), considered as “foreigners” by the
Authorities
9
At the time of the desk review (July-August 2006), an assessment was on going in Burao conducted by MRRR, but
no report was made available by the end of August.
10
Main sources of information related to Kossar settlement, in Burao (Todgeer region of Somaliland) are: - OCHA
IDP/returnee settlement Mastersheet, 2006; - FSAU Nutrition survey, Burao, October 2005; - PRA Report, UNICEF,
2005; - DRC Assessment Report, Burao, 2006
11
Sanaag and Sool Regions are administratively contested regions between Somaliland and Puntland.
12
It has to be pointed out that the composition of the settlements as reported during the last 2/3 years varies
compared to the current one, as some of the original inhabitants left the settlements for other solutions, sometimes
renting out the plot or the shelter to other families/newcomers.
8
- IDPs from within Somaliland, as the ones displaced by conflict in Sool and Sanaag
regions, or by natural disasters
- Returnees: some returnees of the nearly 700,000 Somalis, who have returned in the past
fifteen years from Ethiopia and other countries, find themselves still living in settlement
areas, as reintegration is a difficult challenge for them; while not strictly IDPs, some of
them do need to be considered at risk13.
No specific information was provided on multiple displacement patterns.
According to the population movement tracking data for 2006, minor displacement would
have affected Somaliland area.
c) Access to basic services:
Information on presence and access to basic services is often available, except for some of
the settlements in Togdheer region.
Information on type of food usually consumed, type of shelter, access to water and
sanitation, to education and health services, malnutrition rate is provided by various
surveys.
d) Livelihood and coping mechanism:
Quite general information is available on type of coping mechanisms, similar for almost
each settlement: mainly casual labor, petty trade, sometimes begging. Social networks and
remittances from abroad constitute important safety nets. Other type of information, such
as type and level of expenditures, wealth/poverty indicators, are scarce.
e) Protection issues:
Various protection issues have been reported in most of the settlements, mainly through
international and local NGOs working inside the settlements: SGBV, eviction threats,
child labor, discrimination against minorities, and others. There is a high need of
understanding the various protection risks, which groups are more exposed than others,
and their current capacities of coping/mitigating the risks.
f) Durable Solutions:
Some information has been provided, but often in general terms.
3.2.2 Puntland
 Information available per region:
Bari Region:
Various settlements are clearly identified in Bossasso District, thanks to the efforts of the IDP
Task Force, which is trying to implement an IDP Road Map strategy in the area 14. Specific
information has been provided by UN-HABITAT, UNDP/RRIDP, UNICEF and DRC.
The IDP matrix for Bossasso was updated and verified by the Bossasso Protection Working
Group during August 2006.
Nugaal Region:
Information on Garowe settlements is quite scarce compared to Bossasso area. Available data
have been collected thanks to the efforts of some LNGOs. In 2005 UNDP/RRIDP in
partnership with a local NGO conducted a survey on IDPs and vulnerable population in
13
Joint UN Strategy for IDPs in Somalia, UNCT, December 2005.
The Bossasso IDP Task Force is formed by: OCHA, UN-HABITAT, UNICEF, UNDP, UNHCR, WFP, DRC and
LNGOs.
14
9
Garowe. Data published in the survey report refer to the general situation in Garowe
settlements, but do not provide specific information at settlement level15.
Mudug Region:
Updated information on Gaalkayo town IDPs and Mergaga settlements are mainly contained
in FSAU Nutrition assessment report (2006), UNHCR and LNGOs information notes.
During 2006 UNDP/RRIDP in partnership with a local NGO has been conducting a survey on
IDPs and vulnerable population living in Gaalkayo. Data were not yet published at the time of
the desk review but will be later analysed thanks to UNHCR support.
Puntland Sources by Age
27%
2006
2005
73%
 Puntland Main identified elements16
a) Settlements Caseloads and estimates:
Regarding Bossasso area, the majority of settlements are clearly inhabited mainly by IDPs
from South/Central Somalia and by Ethiopian nationals, with some IDPs families who
returned to their clan-base in Puntland.
The Ethiopian nationals constitute a specific category, which might include asylumseekers as well as migrants.
Some analysed reports and information notes indicate the whole population living in
specific settlements as “IDPs”, providing “IDPs” estimates, while through direct
interviews with families in the settlements and discussion with some humanitarian staff
operational in the areas it became evident that other groups are living in those settlements,
such as Ethiopian nationals and individuals who moved for economic reasons. “IDPs”
estimates are thus to be taken very carefully; it is more appropriate to refer to the total
population of the settlements;
In addition, estimates can vary considerably, thus the need of referring to the full range
(from/to) inside the matrix
Main clan composition of settlements has been identified.
b) Patterns of Displacement:
The main patterns of displacement are the following17:
- IDPs with their clan-base in Puntland, who have moved and lived for two to three
generations in the south and centre of Somalia. They fled back to Puntland to escape
unrest during the early 1990s, returning to their clan-land;
15
Unfortunately UNDP/RRIDP database on Garowe settlements was damaged during July and August 2006, thus
not accessible at the time of the desk review. Later fixed, it is now being analysed by UNHCR colleagues in order to
soon mapped out available data.
16
The following elements mainly refer to the IDP situation in Bossasso district, as most of the data on Garowe and
Galkaayo were not available for analysis, as ealier explained
17
Joint UN Strategy for IDPs in Somalia, UNCT, December 2005.
10
- IDPs from the centre and south of Somalia, mainly fleeing from conflict, but as well
droughts and floods, coming directly to Puntland (not ethnic Puntlanders);
- IDPs from within Puntland, mainly in Mudug region
- Conflict displaced “expelled” from Somaliland, who originally fled from the
South/Centre Somalia to Somaliland in the early 1990s, however later decided to move
towards Puntland due to a threat of being expelled from Somaliland when the president
declared the expulsion of “illegal foreigners” in Somaliland in October 2003.
c) Access to basic services:
Information on presence and access to basic services is often available.
Information on type of food usually consumed, type of shelter, access to water and
sanitation, to education and health services is provided, but sometimes on general terms.
More specific entry points need to be provided for operation al purposes.
d) Livelihood and coping mechanism:
Quite general information is available on type of coping mechanisms, similar for almost
each settlement: main source of income is usually combination of casual labor, garbage
collection, petty trade. Social networks and remittances from abroad may constitute
important safety nets. Other type of information, such as type and level of expenditures,
wealth/poverty indicators, are scarce.
e) Protection issues:
The few available reports indicate various protection risks: SGBV, child labor, eviction
threats, and others. Reports indicate as well that the main protection risks, and especially
security threats, vary according to the location of the camp, inside the town or outside,
indicating the need for deeper analysis.
f) Durable Solutions:
Scarce information is available.
3.2.3 South/Central Somalia
Regarding the South/Central area, the level, quantity and quality of information vary
considerably region by region, and as well district by district.
In general terms, it is evident that the level of available and accurate information is much
lower than for Somaliland and some areas of Puntland.
South and Central Som alia Sources by Age
10%
3% 3%
2006
2005
2004
2003
84%
11
Regarding main pattern of displacement, throughout the years conflicts and natural disasters
(especially droughts and floods) have caused continuous waves of forced movements,
creating often multiple layers of displacement. Thus a combination of protracted and fresh
displacement has been observed throughout the various regions.
In general terms, it needs to be pointed out that the biggest information gaps relate to the
main protection risks (material, socio-economic, physical) faced by the IDPs, and to which
are their intentions for the future period, in terms of durable solutions.
As earlier mentioned, the level/quality of information vary considerably region by region, and
generally quite limited, thus instead of proceeding with a South/Central zone analysis it is
preferred to point out main identified elements on a regional basis.
Benadir Region (Mogadishu)
As clearly indicated by the matrix, the district location, the name and the approximate
population figures for almost 200 settlements were provided for Mogadishu area, thanks to
UNICEF IDP Baseline Survey Report (2005) and to assessments conducted by various
LNGOs (2006). Additional settlements have been identified by partners on the ground, thus a
thorough verification and cross-checking need to be soon conducted in the field, enabling a
clear updated mapping out of all existing settlements.
Very few other data are available at settlement level, such as main pattern of displacement,
clan composition, access to basic services, protection issues, but vulnerability of the displaced
people living in Mogadishu has been reported as extremely high by various sources.
It has to be mentioned as well that in the first half of 2006 high and multiple displacement has
occurred in the area due to conflict; since July 2006, the situation has been relatively calm,
reportedly allowing many recently displaced families to return back.
Middle and Lower Juba Regions (Kismaayo)
After Mogadishu, Kismaayo hosts the largest number of IDPs in Somalia, with current
varying estimates of at least 20.000/25.000 IDPs. Name and population figures related to 23
IDP settlements were provided. Additional settlements have been identified by partners on
the ground, thus a thorough verification and cross-checking need to be conducted in the field,
enabling a clear updated mapping out of all existing settlements.
Very few other data are available at settlement level.
It has to be mentioned that high drought-related displacement had been reported during 2006
throughout Juba regions, adding further layers to an already-complex displacement situation.
Kismaayo has been described in some reports as a quite contested environment18, requiring
specific attention in the planning and provision of any assistance (do not harm).
Hiran Region
While some settlements have been identified thanks to the support of agencies operational in
the region, it has been reported that the majority of IDPs are living mixed with the host
community, thus scattered throughout the region. Some agencies report that a certain number
of protracted IDPs have actually managed to “integrate” with the host community.
A deeper analysis would be beneficial in terms of understanding which coping mechanisms
were put in place by the displaced and if an actual “integration” has really gradually occurred.
This type of research will as well significantly contribute to provide some entry points to the
open question “When does displacement end”.
“Livelihood and protection study of IDPs and vulnerable communities in Kismaayo ”Simon Narbeth, OCHA,
2003
18
12
In addition, it has to be pointed out that different type of movements are reported to take
place through Hiran, as it is border-crossing area to and from Ethiopia, requiring specific
attention.
The need for further assessment was as well pointed out during the workshop on the
protection of IDPs, organised by IDMC/NRC during March 2006 in Merka19.
Lower and Middle Shabelle Regions
As for Lower Shabelle data on several settlements are available, especially in Merka area,
thanks as well to the UN Inter-Agency rapid assessment conducted in June 2006.
Data on Middle Shabelle are more scarce and need updating, thus an additional effort is
needed trying to gather more updated data.
One of the main issues highlighted for these regions concerns the recent influx of
displacement, mainly related to Mogadishu-conflict: reportedly most of the freshly displaced
returned back to their original place, but further cross-checking on the ground would need to
be conducted in order to verify the information.
Bay and Bakool Regions
Bay and Bakol regions are not only hosting a consistent number of IDPs, including fresh
displacement due to Mogadishu-related conflict, but are as well the “home”, thus the place of
origin, for a high number of IDPs currently living in other areas of Somalia (such as
Bossasso, Mogadishu, Hiran region, Gedo and others). Very few information is currently
available on the real future intentions of IDPs originally from Bay and Bakol, neither if return
to these region could be sustainable and which conditions need to be met in order to
contribute towards this direction.
As for the situation of IDPs currently living in Bay and Bakol region, it needs to be pointed
out that sometimes contradictory information on the locations/names of the settlements was
received by different agencies. Further cross-checked on the field is required.
Gedo Region:
Very limited and old information on IDP living in Gedo was available at the beginning of the
desk review. Thanks to OCHA and some local NGOs efforts, some updated data were
gradually collected, proving a general picture of the displacement in the area.
It has to be mentioned that Gedo is a border-crossing area to and from Kenya, thus frequent
and different type of movements are reported in the region.
Galgaduug Region:
Very limited information has so far been available on Galgaduud region. Additional efforts
need to be made in the coming period trying to map out more clearly the displacement
situation affecting the area.
3.3
Lesson learnt
 High need for improving our understanding on who is an IDP and who is not.
Some analysed reports and information notes indicate the whole population living in
specific settlements as “IDPs”, while through direct interviews with families in the
settlements and discussion with some humanitarian staff operational in the areas it
became evident that other groups are living in those settlements, such as Ethiopian
nationals and individuals who moved for economic reasons.
19
Workshop on the Protection of IDPs - Report, IDMC/NRC, Merka, 12-14 March 2006
13
Some humanitarian workers wondered on the operational relevance of distinguishing
IDPs from other vulnerable categories living in the same location, often sharing the
same needs. While it is recognised that often individuals belonging to different
caseloads might share the same needs, it has to be reiterated that IDPs do have
specific vulnerabilities related to the fact that they have been forcibly displaced, and
thus deprived of (some of) their rights and might be at risk.
In addition, they might need specific attention on the search for durable solutions.
It does make a difference for programme planning whether a person has been forced
to flee or has moved for economic reasons.
 It is fundamental to deconstruct the IDP category, in order to understand and
highlight their specific patterns and reason for displacement and their current specific
vulnerabilities.
While all IDPs have been deprived of some of their rights and are/might be at risk due
to their being displaced, their vulnerabilities may be more or less acute, latent or
dormant at different stages and phases of their displacement. Certainly not all IDPs
have specific needs, or indeed any particular needs that they are unable to satisfy
through their own efforts20.
 Any IDP analysis and further programming has to be contextualised;
in order to properly understand the protection risks we would need to know more
about the area where IDPs are living, and which impact has the location on the risk
level. Any provided aid has the potential of increasing their vulnerabilities instead of
alleviating.
 High need for increasing the documenting and sharing of information on the IDP and
other groups situation; we need to understand that in the current situation any
provided information represents an entry point which would need to be verified but
nevertheless would enable having some basic references.
4. IDP Profiling in Somalia: Proposed Way Forward
4.1
IDP Profiling: Beyond counting
Providing more accurate data on the number of IDPs in the different locations is one of the
aims of the profiling initiative.
The matrixes produced during the desk review contribute already to a more accurate mapping
of estimates and geographical locations.
During the field profiling exercise, specific attention will be given in gathering as accurate as
possible data on IDPs numbers, trying to disaggregate per age and gender21.
Nevertheless, we need to acknowledge that an accurate count of IDPs is unlikely ever to be
possible, especially in the extremely fluid Somali context, thus while trying to improve
accuracy we will have to keep using “working estimates”.
20
Guidelines on How to Profile Internally Displaced Persons, draft IASC publication, 2006
On this note, as underlined in the Guidelines on how to profile IDPs, it has to be bear in mind that the
quantification inherent to the exercise carries politically sensitive information that can go to the heart of important
individual and collective interests, thus careful attention has to be paid on managing the information.
21
14
At the same time, an important conclusion of the discussion with many humanitarian actors is
that the IDP profiling needs to go beyond counting, beyond numbers, trying to tackle and
analyse IDP existing vulnerabilities and future intentions.
The profiling should help to understand, amongst other, which are the main protection risks
IDPs face, which groups (age/gender/diversity - for example belonging to a minority group)
are more exposed/vulnerable, what are their existing coping mechanisms and what are their
options and wishes for the longer-tem durable solution.
In doing so, the profiling will try to deconstruct the IDP caseload, avoiding general
considerations and going deeper into the root causes of their vulnerabilities.
As well, in order to properly understand the risks we would need to know more about the area
where IDPs are living, and which impact has the location on the risk level.
It is of a general agreement that an IDP individual registration is not a good option in the
Somali context, a position which was reiterated as well during the IDP Profiling Workshop22.
Due to the constant displacement, any mechanism of individual registration would need to be
constantly kept in place, which at the moment is not considered a feasible option.
The common understanding is that proceeding with an individual IDPs registration or even
with a head/hut count methodology would create some further expectations, a sort of
entitlement to assistance, or the perception of a privileged status compared to other vulnerable
population living in the same conditions. In addition, due to the limited access and monitoring
activities, the risk of biased registration is potentially high.
Thus, the IDP profiling initiative in Somalia will mainly rely on information/triangulation
between different sources, as State and traditional Authorities, camp committees,
humanitarian agencies and the IDPs themselves in order to provide as much as accurate
estimates on the number of IDP families and individuals living in a specific settlement.
An approach that favours the triangulation of information is necessary in these settings.
This will provide data on a specific moment of time.
The Population Movement Tracking mechanism, which has been recently set up and is
proving to be properly working, will ensure constant updates on the new displacement from
or to a specific location, enabling automatic updates.
4.2
IDP analysis over time and space
Considering the multiple waves of displacement characterising the Somalia context, it is
important to understand how many times families have been moving, which was their original
place and when/why they did move first. It will be interesting as well to understand which
place they do consider “home”.
The analysis will have to go beyond the location of displacement, trying to explore the
feasibility and sustainability of return to places of origin, when and if this is the voluntary
choice of IDPs.
As a consistent number of IDPs, currently living in various locations, originally come from
Bay and Bakol regions, it is recommended to conduct a specific profiling exercise in these
areas, working with Local Authorities, traditional leaders and host population, potentially
with some returnees, trying to understand if and how much the environment is conducive to
return and which actions can be recommended in the short and longer-term. It would be
relevant to link the initiative with the FSAU livelihood analysis of the area.
The Somalia IDP Profiling Workshop – Desk Review Phase was held under the auspices of the IASC Somalia on
8 September 2006 in Nairobi.
22
15
4.3
When does displacement end?
As recommended by the Guidelines, objective criteria and indicators need to be jointly
developed for the Somalia context as well as for the different areas/groups helping identifying
and deciding when a person or a group is no longer considered to be displaced. Some criteria
can have a global application, while others need to be developed specifically for the country
as well as for specific areas/ IDP groups. The individual reasons for displacement need to be
examined before determining that they no longer exist.
Findings from the pilot exercises in the field during the next phase will contribute to a better
understanding of the various patterns and level of displacement, thus providing relevant
feedbacks into this process as well.
The Somalia IDP Profiling Workshop, which was held on 8 September 2006 in Nairobi,
included a session on this specific issue, opening for a common moment of discussion
between the various agencies.
4.4
IDP Profiling exercise: Recommended Locations
It has to be stated that while a comprehensive, country-wide profiling remains a priority, the
evolving and highly volatile security situation in South/Central Somalia put serious
constraints to its current implementation.
The Protection/IDP Working Group agreed to initially test the profiling exercises in 7
locations in Somalia, starting from October 2006.
A spot case-study approach will apply.
During the Somalia IDP Profiling Workshop, participants split in four Working Groups,
covering the various areas of Somalia: Somaliland, Puntland, South/Central and one
specifically for Mogadishu.
Each WG agreed on recommendations related to the conduction of the IDP Profiling
exercises, specifying priority locations, on which groups to focus, which methodology/ies to
apply, timeframe and operational links.
The identified main assumptions are:
 The security situation does not deteriorate/ or remain stable (depending on the
location) and full access is ensured
 Good cooperation and support from the Authorities
On this basis, a concept paper and a budget proposal have been prepared and submitted to
relevant donors for further implementation.
Please see Annex no. 3 “IDP Profiling in Somalia - Recommended Pilot Locations”
4.5
Methodologies and Tools
The level of access is the main element in any assessment. It goes beyond the physical access,
it means gaining enough trust and confidence enabling discussion on a deeper level.
The entry point to any settlement is represented by persons who have already established
good relations with the IDP community, usually because they are already working inside the
settlements; they are respected and have established a certain level of trust. Staff working for
a specific humanitarian agency, which is fairly promoting and providing protection or
assistance to people in need, can represent a good entry point for further assessment/profiling.
It is thus recommended that the IDP profiling exercise is conducted and facilitated by actors
with an on going presence and good level of trust.
Different methodologies are proposed according to the specific location, with tools to be
further retuned.
16
A. South and Central Somalia
A1) Mogadishu
Considering that around 200 settlements have been reported in the 16 Mogadishu
districts, a prioritization process has to be conducted, adopting clear indicators (such
as the presence of minorities, level of access to basic services and economic
opportunities, potential eviction threats, and others). Indicators are currently being
worked out by the Protection and IDP Working group. Reportedly, the majority of
settlements are public buildings occupied by IDPs and other groups.
A survey sampling methodology is going to be applied.
Focus group discussion, coupled with some household interviews will be the main
tool used in each site
A2) Lower and Middle Shabelle, Bay, Bakol, Gedo regions/Profiling through
provision of assistance
A service-based methodology is planned to be gradually tested in 5 regions (Lower
and Middle Shabelle, Bay, Bakol, Gedo regions), linking with WHO planned outreach
health services.
The aim of the WHO outreach clinics is to provide basic health services to IDPs as
well as other vulnerable populations living in various scattered settlements and
villages. Core data and a few context-specific data will be collected through the health
provided services.
As discussed, this methodology will not provide extensive data, but it should enable to
have a more specific picture on the IDP situation in areas otherwise hardly accessible.
A3) Hiran
Hiran region, most probably Baladweyn and Bulo Burte areas, have been pointed put
as one of the priority areas to be covered by the profiling exercise. Both urban and
rural IDPs will be targeted, few living in settlements but mostly the ones mixed with
the host community.
A survey sampling methodology is going to be applied. Focus group discussion,
coupled with some household interviews will be the main tool used.
As IDMC/NRC is planning to undertake urban IDP profiling, mixed with host
community, in some countries in Africa, similar tools will be used with necessary
context adjustment.
As pointed out by the desk review, the main questions to be answered relate to the
various coping mechanisms put in place by the different IDP groups (protracted and
recent IDPs) and their chosen durable solutions. Attention will be given on trying to
understand the possible different “integration” levels, if any.
A4) Kismaayo
Considering that it is the town hosting the second largest number of IDPs in Somalia,
and that very limited data on the IDPs are currently available, Kismaayo has been
recommended as one of the priority locations.
Given the high displacement still on going and the fact that the environment is quite
fragile and volatile, a careful approach has to be used. Again, survey sampling
methodology was suggested.
B. Puntland
B1) Bossasso
As outlined in the desk review, various protection risks were reported in Bossasso
settlements, indicating the need for a deeper analysis, focusing on understanding
17
which groups are more exposed than others, and their current capacities of
coping/mitigating the risks. The profiling exercise will take to take into consideration
how the location of the camp can impact on the risk level.
A survey sampling methodology is going to be applied. Focus group discussion,
coupled with some household interviews (covering approximately 10% of the total
population of the settlement) will be the main tool used in each settlement. AGDM
(Age/Gender/Diversity Mainstreaming) approach is going to be used as/when feasible,
facilitating the proper identification and analysis of the groups more
exposed/vulnerable to specific protection risks.
B2) Galkaayo
The Working Group on Puntland highly recommended that the profiling initiative
should be conducted in Galkaayo, as high vulnerability has been reported in the area
and very limited information is available. Galkaayo is as well a route for various types
of movements from South to North (forced displacement, economic and other).
A survey sampling methodology is going to be applied.
C. Somaliland
C1) Burao area and Hargeisa
As highlighted by the IDP matrix on IDPs/other groups Settlements in Somaliland,
various type of information are available through existing assessment
reports/documents as well as thanks to updating efforts from agencies present on the
field.
Nevertheless, as recommended by the Somaliland Protection/IDP WG members, some
IDPs settlements in Burao area have not been properly or at all assessed, and in
addition protection risks faced by IDPs are to be more deeply assessed. The
recommendation produced during the IDP Profiling Workshop relates to the need of
conducting the profiling initiative in 3 settlements in Burao (Ali Hussein, 15 May,
October) and 1 in Hargeisa (Stadium).
A survey sampling methodology is going to be applied. Focus group discussion,
coupled with some household interviews (covering approximately 10% of the total
population of the settlement) will be the main tool used in each settlement. AGDM
approach is going to be used as/when feasible.
C2) Hargeisa/Profiling through provision of assistance
An additional methodology which is going to be applied in Somaliland is the servicebased methodology, through the provision of Outreach Legal Services.
UNHCR has recently signed a sub-agreement with the University of Law of Hargeisa
with the aim of providing free outreach legal assistance to IDPs living in three
settlements in Hargeisa.
Compared to other outreach services, the legal clinic might be the most appropriate in
gathering IDP core data, as most of this information would be automatically gathered
by the lawyer, in order to properly understand the case.
The same questionnaire prepared for WHO outreach services in South/Central
Somalia, including core data and a few context-specific data, will be used by the
University of Law.
It is to be stressed that in Somaliland, considering the position of the Authorities with regards
to who is an IDP in the context of Somaliland, as expressed in the 2003 Decree, the main
assumption behind the IDP profiling exercise relates to the fact that the Authorities will
support the initiative and its findings.
18
As previously said, link with FSAU on Food Security and Livelihood will need to be ensured
in terms of approach and tools.
During various Protection/IDP Working Groups in Nairobi and in Somalia, it was highly
recommended to try to involve GIS staff in order to produce maps, ideally satellite maps as
well, per each IDP settlement, pointing out layout of the settlement, existing services (water
points, latrines, school and health services).
As a follow-up, a GIS Officer has been recently assigned to UNHCR BO Somalia.
4.6 Information Management
Discussions are still on going within UNHCR, OCHA and some other agencies on which type
of information management system fits better the IDP profiling exercise in Somalia. It has to
be pointed out that focus group will be the main tool used, coupled with some household
interviews. Focus group discussion cannot be systematized into a database, but represent a
valid analysis instrument.
Ideally an integrated system shall be put in place, where data coming from the IDP Profiling,
the Population Movement Tracking and the Protection Monitoring network could be entered,
allowing for integration of data.
In addition, UNHCR is currently considering reviewing its Returnee Monitoring database
system, in such a way that data on IDPs and on returnees living in the same area could be
analysed for comparison purposes.
19