The policy dialogue “Policy Strategies for Enhancing Climate-Resilient Social Integration of Syrian Refugees in Jordan” is part of ARDD's Migration, Displacement, and Statelessness Program and is supported by CGIAR's MENA Regional Climate Security Hub. The collaboration reflects a commitment to advancing climate resilience and social cohesion through evidence-based policy and partnership.

This dialogue aimed to address the need to shift from short-term humanitarian aid to strategies that promote long-term sustainability and resilience, focusing specifically on Syrian refugees in Jordan with the goal of bridging the gap in programming that supports host communities and refugees in jointly building climate-resilient livelihoods. It also explored how refugee contributions can strengthen the resilience of Jordan’s food, land, and water systems, with a particular emphasis on the inclusion and empowerment of women and youth as outlined in the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) agenda.

Martina Jaskolski, a CGIAR climate, peace, and security policy scientist, highlighted research findings that advocate a shift from humanitarian aid to sustainable livelihoods for Syrian refugees. Interestingly, the CGIAR research initiative HER+ adds a gender lens to the discussion.

Frans Schapendonk, climate security specialist at CGIAR gave a summary of a report conducted by CGIAR based on financial health in the agricultural sector and the inclusion of Syrian refugees.

The dialogue tackled the complex challenges at the intersection of climate change, displacement, and peace and security. It aimed to develop strategies that enhance self-reliance among Syrian refugees, promote social inclusion, and build effective social protection systems in Jordan aiming to contribute to Jordan’s broader efforts to support both refugee and host communities in achieving sustainable development.

The policy dialogue presented actionable recommendations based on data-driven analysis and attendees worked together to identify successful models and best practices for integrating climate resilience into social inclusion and safety net development. Moreover, the event aimed to strengthen collaboration among sub-national, national, and international stakeholders, fostering policy development and future interventions that enhance social and economic integration.

The organizers call on policymakers, community leaders, international partners, and the private sector to adopt a collaborative and data-driven approach, in turn creating a more inclusive and resilient future for both refugees and host communities in Jordan.

Mariam Abu Samra, Coordinator of the Renaissance Strategic Center (RSC) at ARDD and Senior Researcher within the “Migration, Displacement, and Statelessness” Program, stated that, although Jordan has made critical strides in supporting Syrian refugees’ access to work and basic services, formidable challenges persist. Legal, economic, and social barriers continue to constrain Syrian refugees’ ability to achieve self-sufficiency. Policy recommendations should focus on:

• Sustaining access to affordable work permits for Syrian refugees,
• Decoupling social security requirements from work permits to increase accessibility,
• Expanding Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) options to improve employment prospects,
• Enhancing legal aid services to support refugees’ rights and protections,
• Localization.

The discussion following the organizers' presentations highlighted several key points for enhancing the social integration and resilience of Syrian refugees in Jordan:

- Cash-for-Work Initiatives: Emphasis was placed on cash-for-work programs to provide immediate income support while fostering community engagement.

- Joint Loan Program Development: Participants discussed designing joint loan programs to empower refugees and host community members in starting small businesses and fostering economic self-reliance.

- Group Networking and Peer Support: Implementing a group approach was suggested, including networking events where Syrians can act as trainers, sharing skills and experiences with peers.

- Targeted Skill Assessments: The importance of conducting skill assessments in sectors with high demand was underscored to ensure that training aligns with market needs.

- Digital Inclusion: Digital inclusion efforts were recognized as vital, with a focus on bridging the digital divide to enhance employment opportunities.

- Hiring Quotas for Syrian Refugees: Discussions also considered introducing hiring quotas to encourage more inclusive labor market practices.

- Local Policy and Adaptation Plans: Attendees emphasized the role of local policies and adaptation plans in ensuring that refugee integration strategies align with Jordan’s broader social and economic goals.

To conclude, a coordinated effort between Jordanian authorities, NGOs, and the international community will be essential to support Syrian refugees in achieving dignified livelihoods, stability, and long-term social cohesion in Jordan’s society and economy.