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What are the impacts of displacement on children and families?

Kimora Pybworth

The impacts of displacement on children and families are numerous and far-reaching, presenting significant challenges to both physical and emotional wellbeing. Displacement can be defined as the involuntary or forced movement of individuals or families from their homes or communities due to natural disasters, conflicts, or economic pressures. While the consequences of displacement can vary widely depending on the circumstance, the impacts on children and families are often profound and long-lasting.

One of the most significant impacts of displacement on children and families is the loss of their sense of security and stability. When families are forced to leave their homes and communities, they often face uncertain and challenging conditions, which can lead to anxiety, emotional distress, and trauma. Children, in particular, are vulnerable to the effects of displacement, which can cause them to feel scared, confused, and disoriented. The lack of safety and insecurity often reinforces pre-existing gender inequalities, threatening children and women’s physical and emotional security in their new environments.

Moreover, displacement can interrupt the schooling of children if they have to move frequently. This can have a negative impact on their education and future career opportunities. A new study by UNICEF has also suggested that children who are internally displaced, especially in conflict situations, may run a higher risk of being affected by child labor and forced marriage, which can further erode their human rights and dignity.

Apart from their psychological distress, displacement can also affect the physical health of children and families. Displaced persons can be forced to leave their homes and communities without adequate access to basic services like health care and clean water. Thus, displaced persons, especially children, run a higher risk of contracting diseases like malaria and cholera. They are also exposed to potential violence, exploitation, and abuse in their new environments.

At the same time, displacement can have a positive impact on children and families. It can lead to social connections, mutual support, and solidarity. Through this, individuals can build networks that can help them access resources they need to rebuild their lives. Moreover, the deep sense of loss experienced is often accompanied by survival mechanisms that children in difficult circumstances typically develop. This builds their resilience, confidence, and self-esteem.

To reduce the negative impacts of displacement on children and families, there is a need to provide appropriate support services, including counseling, healthcare, education, and protection. Relief agencies and government bodies must work towards ensuring that the basic needs of displaced persons are met, including access to shelter, clean water, and food, while ensuring that the host communities are properly informed, and the necessary steps are taken to avoid tensions with the displaced persons.

In conclusion, displacement can have an extensive impact on children and families, affecting not just their physical and psychological health but also their social and economic development. Therefore, efforts must be made to reduce the negative impact of displacement while maximizing its potential for resilience building and social capital formation. This requires a concerted effort by governments, development organizations, and other stakeholders to ensure that displaced persons are protected from exploitation, abuse, and have access to opportunities essential for their well-being, dignity, and rights.