In search of dignified life, durable solutions, and sustainable development: case studies of IDPs in Afghanistan and Rohingyas in Bangladesh

This study focuses on dignity because sustainable development requires just institutions, alleviating poverty, education etc. all of which are central to dignity. Focusing on dignity also permitted the perspective of those in need to come to the fore, the study capture how they view a ‘good’ life or a positive and sustainable future, one in which their well-being is protected. The study tracked the experiences of the IDPs in Afghanistan and Rohingyas from Rakhine, Myanmar, it traced their dignity journey from their homes to the camps or other settlements where they were now living. In doing this it achieved a number of outcomes: (1) delivered a clearer understanding of how displacements happen and are experienced; (2) created the knowledge necessary to improve the just and dignified delivery of support necessary to sustain displaced persons and their communities and potentially other displaced and refugee communities in the world; (3) explored practical solutions to provide pathways to healthier and safer lives (both short-term and more durable); and (4) highlighted the multidimensional support necessary to help the IDPs and Rohingyas to return to their places of origin, resettle elsewhere, or integrate into their host communities.