Whether due to conflict, persecution or natural disasters, the patterns of human displacement are becoming increasingly complex. Today, almost half of the world’s 10.5 million refugees reside in urban areas, with only one-third in camps. Many are effectively invisible, absorbed into cities and urban dwellings with little protection from the authorities and without suitable humanitarian interventions aimed at supporting them.

In support of UN World Refugee Day (20 June) and Refugee Week (14–20 June) in the UK, the Humanitarian Policy Group  at ODI has brought together its research to highlight the interrelated challenges that displacement, migration and urbanisation pose for humanitarian action.

The Humanitarian Policy Group  has conducted research, convened and participated in debates and provided policy advice across a number of issues, including:

·         Land rights and informal settlements

·         Reintegration of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees

·         Humanitarian responses in urban contexts

·         Remittances during crises

·         Protection