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The migrant population of working age faces high levels of unemployment, and despite the fact that 90% of them already have a regular migratory status, 82% of those who manage to find employment do so in the informal sector or with a salary below the minimum wage. In addition, 84% of this population reports that they do not have access to credit or loans that would allow them to undertake business initiatives, which limits their chance for economic development.
In the cacao, specialty coffee, construction and tourism sector, the demand for workers is high, but skilled labour is insufficient. This situation is aggravated by difficulties in the validation of educational and professional qualifications, which prevents many migrants from using their knowledge and skills.
These challenges are compounded by threats to the livelihoods of the migrant population and their host communities due to the violation of their rights and in some cases the lack of a legal status. These factors limit opportunities for growth and stability for both groups, affecting their long-term well-being and development.
The Empodera project is focused on transforming lives, building opportunities and weaving integration networks for Venezuelan migrants and refugees, Colombian returnees and host communities in key sectors of Colombia.
This project goes well beyond labour integration: Aware of the multiple barriers and difficulties faced by migrants, the project offers legal advice, training migrants and their host communities to know and defend their rights. In this way, the returned migrants not only find economic opportunities, but also the necessary support to formalise their legal status, facilitating, in many cases, their access to nationality. Thus, not only are they socially and economically integrated, but they become citizens who actively contribute to the productive development of the country.
Empodera’s mission is clear: to foster a sustainable socioeconomic integration in strategic regions. To achieve this, the project works hand in hand with the private sector and uses evidence-based methodologies, which combines developing skills with a focus on inclusive market systems. This strategy builds strong value chains in the cacao, coffee, construction, and tourism sector – high-demand areas that require talent and will benefit from the active participation of the migrant population.
For Empodera, the protection of human rights is also a central priority. Through case referrals, the project addresses situations of risk that include gender-based violence and other rights violations that particularly affect women, children and people from the LGBTQI+ community. In this way, the project not only promotes integration, but also a safe and dignified environment where everyone can thrive.
A bridge-building initiative at its core, the Empodera brings communities together and opens pathways for migrants and refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity, security and renewed purpose, while also contributing to the country's development and social cohesion.