32 Integration of conflict and violence-induced refugees residing in the western region of Ghana

Abstract OP 30: Refugees and Asylum Seekers 5, B308 (FCSH), September 4, 2025, 16:00 - 17:12 This study looks at the social and economic integration of refugees who have fled to Ghana, with the primary goal of assessing social cohesiveness, host community participation, and policy frameworks. The study takes a mixed-methods approach, using an empirical model to assess happiness as a measure of well-being and qualitative interviews to offer contextual depth. The study is framed on social integration paradigm, emphasizing the importance of both institutional assistance and grassroots community acceptance. According to the findings, successful integration requires financial aid (90%), access to education and vocational training (60%), improved healthcare (53%), and employment prospects (50%). Additionally, seventeen percent of refugees underlined the importance of formal community participation. Community interviews reveal a high level of social cohesion, with locals referring to migrants as family and include them in cultural events. Past land disputes have been addressed, allowing refugees to acquire farms and bolstering their economic stability. Despite community backing, policy initiatives remain ineffective. The Ghana Refugee Board manages camps, but implementing agencies lack the means to properly meet refugees’ requirements. The study emphasizes the importance of better policy frameworks and sustainable livelihood programs in improving integration and reintegration outcomes. In conclusion, we show that integration or reintegration goes beyond policies and grows from the everyday solidarity between refugees and host communities. With fair access to financial aid, education, healthcare, and livelihoods, refugees can live with dignity and build lasting trust and resilience.