19–21 May 2025 | Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), in partnership with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, today inaugurated the 4th Scientific Conference on Migration, Displacement, and Urbanisation under the theme “Implications for Sustainable Development.”
This three-day conference brings together researchers, policy-makers, civil society organisations, development partners, and government representatives from across the IGAD region and beyond to examine the growing interlinkages between human mobility and urban transformation.
Against a backdrop of rising displacement, rapid urbanisation, and complex migration patterns driven by conflict, climate shocks, economic pressures, and demographic change, the conference provides a timely platform for dialogue and evidence-sharing. Participants will engage around five strategic sub-themes:
- Drivers and Root Causes
- Urban Governance and Policy
- Socio-Economic Integration
- Financing, Investment and Innovation
- Data and Evidence for Policy and Planning
Speaking at the opening on behalf of the Executive Secretary, IGAD Head of Mission to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Mr Abebaw Belachew reaffirmed IGAD’s commitment to promoting research-informed, people-centred policies that respond to the evolving realities of the region. The outcomes of the conference are expected to inform national and regional frameworks, strengthen policy coherence, and contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
”This conference provides a vital regional platform for evidence-based dialogue, interdisciplinary collaboration, and innovation. It presents scientific solutions for filing the policy-implementation gab by connecting research and policy to inform decision making. It also allows for stronger links and establish networks among our member states, development partners, research and think-thank institutions, working in migration and displacement in the region.”
Ms Tayiba Hassen Kayo, Director General of Refugees and Returnees Service of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia noted “Displaced individuals often arrive with limited resources and face difficulties accessing essential services and finding sustainable livelihoods. The rapid influx of displaced populations affects our urban systems, leading to overcrowded settlements, increased poverty, and social unrest. Thus, it demands effective urban planning for managing the impacts of migration and displacement through inclusive policies that address the needs of both migrants and displaced populations and host communities for ensuring sustainable development and social cohesion.”
Organised in collaboration with GIZ, the Government of Sweden, Cities Alliance, ReDSS, and the IGAD Universities Forum, the 4th Scientific Conference builds on previous editions and underscores the central role of knowledge generation and regional cooperation in shaping inclusive, sustainable, and resilient urban futures.
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