By Britanny
Vanderhoof
Since the conflict in Syria began,
over four
million people have fled and are living as refugees in host countries. Humanitarian
aid has been inconsistent and cuts to assistance programs have had devastating
impacts on refugees. Refugees, although living safely in host countries, may
face poverty, little or no access to medical care, and few educational
opportunities. The situation is causing people to lose hope and forcing
families to make the impossible decision of remaining in their current
situation, risking return to Syria, or attempting to make the perilous journey
to Europe.
No one solution will address all
of the challenges faced by Syrian refugees. However, allowing Syrians to work
is one step that could help alleviate the stresses on families described above.
Allowing refugees to work would reduce their reliance on aid and increase their
ability to pay for services such as medical care. Despite the necessity and
importance of allowing refugees to work, Jordan has instituted policies that
prevent Syrian refugees from seeking legal employment. While Jordan is not the
only host country to impose this restriction (Lebanon and Turkey have also
instituted barriers to employment), this article will focus on the situation in
Jordan as an example of problems facing the region.
