Report | Review of regional coordination mechanisms in response to mixed movements in the LAC region
The increasing complexity of mixed movements in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) has led to a number of initiatives to improve the response to them through coordination. This study, presented on July 16, 2024, a joint initiative of DG-ECHO, AECID and IOM, together with UNHCR and OCHA, and with the support of the LAC MRD Coalition, IFRC and UNDCO, examines inter-agency coordination mechanisms to respond to mixed movements in the region. The objective is to identify their strengths, gaps, overlaps and complementarities and, based on the findings and results, formulate concrete and realistic recommendations to improve their effectiveness, address gaps and strengthen aspects recognized as good practices or strengths of existing coordination mechanisms, particularly the Regional Risk Group, Emergencies and Disasters for Latin America and the Caribbean (REDLAC), the Regional Interagency Coordination Platform for Refugees and Migrants of Venezuela (R4V) and the Thematic Coalition on Human Mobility (IBC-HM), to ensure an effective response that adapts to the changing dynamics of mixed movements in the region.
The realization of the study by IECAH during the months of February to July 2024 has involved the use of various methodological tools in which more than 400 people have participated. The report of the study is accompanied by a Mapping of the coordination mechanisms in the field. The study notes the major changes that have taken place in recent decades in mixed movements in LAC, which are now much more complex, motivated by a wide range of factors, including the search for better opportunities, but also fleeing armed conflicts and other situations of violence, both in the region and elsewhere on the planet. The trends analyzed in the report show that this situation will continue and may even worsen in the future, depending on changes in international geopolitical realities. Despite the efforts made in the region by States, regional organizations, the United Nations system and civil society, and the numerous initiatives launched in this area, the study shows that the current coordination mechanisms are not sufficient to cover the entire population in a situation of mobility. Overall, the coordination mechanisms have added value to the response as a whole and have contributed to positive results, albeit in a limited way. The emergence of these mechanisms to respond from different approaches has led to inconsistencies, duplication and gaps, especially evident in the area of information management and sectoral issues. On the other hand, the articulation between the regional or subregional dimension of coordination mechanisms and their application in each country, even at the local level, shows great disparity and lack of homogeneity, which is also evident in governance systems that have not allowed for inclusiveness, especially of local organizations.
- Summary of recommendations
The study’s recommendations propose the gradual adaptation of the current coordination mechanisms to a single mechanism that allows for a regional response that is concrete and adapted to the realities of each country. This means adapting the work of the coordination mechanisms, especially R4V and IBC-HM, to the new reality of human mobility in LAC. A specific Working Group should establish the timetable, address the implementation of the recommendations and follow up on their fulfillment or application. In terms of coverage, it is recommended to broaden the mandate of the coordination of mixed movements with an approach based on needs and vulnerabilities, beyond nationality and residence of origin. It is proposed to decisively adopt a route-based approach as a comprehensive strategy to address the needs and protect the rights of migrants and refugees at each stage of their journey. This approach should be reflected in a “Strategy for Responding to Mixed Movements in LAC” that defines in detail the expected outcomes of the coordination mechanisms. The Strategy should specify the themes, approaches, monitoring mechanisms, financing strategies, etc., which could be presented at an International Conference that would make the issue of mixed migration in LAC visible.
Regarding the structure of the mechanism, the study advocates the reconfiguration of R4V, improving its articulation with the rest of the mechanisms and clarifying the various levels of coordination and the synergies that may occur between them. Two levels of coordination are proposed: a political-strategic one and an operational one, recognizing that both types of actions should be complementary and feed each other. This should be reflected at the regional geographic level and at the national level. The idea is not to have two different structures, but rather a single regional and a single national structure per country. It is proposed to expand the presence and inclusion of development organizations and other agencies and NGOs in the governance of the mechanism. The role of the UN Resident Coordinators in each country and of UNDCO at the regional level is considered relevant.
Recognizing the importance of the thematic aspects, steps should be taken to harmonize those already existing in each area, avoid duplication and, in the medium term, unify them at both regional and country level. In this unification of sectors and thematic groups, it is recommended that the criteria of the IASC and the cluster system be followed. In relation to the various information management systems, it is recommended that progress be made towards a unified system that includes aspects of flow prediction and prevention. In relation to sustainability, it is necessary to promote the dedication of some specific resources for coordination. At the same time, efforts should be made to ensure that the States take ownership of the response, strengthening their institutions and capacities, as well as those of civil society organizations in the territory.
*Also available in Spanish
