Internflyktingsituation

Internflyktingsituation refers to the condition of people who are forced to flee within the borders of their own country due to armed conflict, violence, or disasters, and who do not cross international borders. These individuals are commonly described as internally displaced persons (IDPs). Unlike refugees, IDPs remain under the jurisdiction and protection of their own government, and their protection and assistance are primarily the responsibility of national authorities, with support from international humanitarian actors when needed.

Causes of internal displacement include armed conflict and generalized violence, human rights abuses, natural disasters, and, in some cases, development projects that disrupt homes or livelihoods. Displacement can be temporary or protracted, with families sometimes spending years in shelters, camps, or informal settlements. IDPs often face protection risks, restricted access to essential services, housing instability, and barriers to livelihoods such as education, healthcare, and employment.

The legal framework for internal displacement is rooted in human rights law and humanitarian law. The Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement articulate rights and protections for IDPs, while states retain primary responsibility for guaranteeing safety, access to assistance, and durable solutions. Data on IDPs are collected by organizations such as the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, but counting and monitoring can be hindered by access restrictions and security concerns.

Responses combine protection, humanitarian assistance, and long-term solutions. Short-term measures include shelter, food, water, and medical care, while durable solutions may involve voluntary return when safe, local integration within the community, or, in some contexts, relocation. Challenges include funding gaps, access constraints, protracted displacement, and political or security instability.

See also: internal displacement, Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement.