Date of Conferral

2019

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Gabriel Telleria

Abstract

The magnitude of internal displacement worldwide is growing every year and represents a tripling of the existing number of refugees worldwide. Internally displaced persons have specific vulnerabilities and the system of assistance to them needs to be adapted and revised. The purpose of this case study was to identify external factors that influence protection interventions for internally displaced persons in humanitarian response. Using Benet's Polarities of Democracy theory and the Theory of Change Conceptual Framework as a framework, the study sought to identify key external factors influencing protection intervention in humanitarian aid settings. Data for this study was gathered through focus group discussions with internally displaced persons in Niger. Key informant and protection cluster members were interviewed and an online survey conducted. In total, 38 persons participated. Content analysis was used to identify significant themes. The data revealed that multiple external factors impacted the effectiveness of protection intervention in humanitarian action. The central theme was a need for strengthened accountability towards affected populations, with other major themes, including donors and their influence; quality of programs - holistic approach, external attention to the crisis; coordination; nature of the crisis; security; position of the government; and data and analysis, also emerging. The findings shed light on the vulnerability of protection intervention in humanitarian settings, and open opportunities for further research in this topic.

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