This Tuesday, the Working Group for Refugees and Migrants (GTRM) in Ecuador, led by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Migration Organization (IOM), revealed the 2024 Response Plan, with which it is expected to serve the 400,000 Venezuelans in this condition who live in that country.
The plan brings together a total of 76 organizations that provide support to migrants and refugeesy requires a budget that exceeds 288 million dollars. The north is to welcome both migrants and refugees and their host communities.
The goal is to work hand in hand with the government of Ecuador to provide food security and protect this group of migrantsespecially those who are in a more vulnerable situation.
To carry out the plan, a registration and immigration regularization process must be carried out, thanks to which around 90 thousand Venezuelans have been able to legalize their status in Ecuador with a special visa. It is expected that full registration will be completed by the end of the year.
According to the GTRM, this year “We hope to continue with this assistance that promotes the inclusion and protection of both the communities they host and people in human mobility”.
For his part, the UNHCR representative in Ecuador, Federico Augustusindicated that the nation “It has always been generous with refugees and migrants, who have come to shelter and contribute to this country”.
However, he clarified that the ability to maintain aid “is increasingly limited and the country needs support now more than ever.”
Meanwhile, the IOM stated that “the challenges that the country faces in being able to respond to the needs of refugees and migrants require sustained and sufficient support so that all people, including Ecuadorians, can regain hope”.
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**Interview with María Gonzalez, Coordinator of the Working Group for Refugees and Migrants in Ecuador**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, María. The GTRM has recently unveiled the 2024 Response Plan aimed at supporting Venezuelan refugees in Ecuador. Can you tell us more about the main objectives of this plan?
**María Gonzalez:** Thank you for having me. The 2024 Response Plan is an essential framework designed to assist approximately 400,000 Venezuelan migrants living in Ecuador. Our primary goals include enhancing access to essential services like healthcare, education, and legal assistance, while also promoting social integration and protection for these vulnerable communities.
**Editor:** That’s a significant number. How are the 76 organizations involved in implementing this plan?
**María Gonzalez:** We are proud to collaborate with 76 different organizations, including NGOs, government agencies, and international partners. Each organization brings its expertise to the table, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing the multifaceted needs of refugees and migrants. This collaboration is critical for optimizing resources and maximizing the impact of our efforts.
**Editor:** What specific programs or initiatives are included in the Response Plan to assist these Venezuelan migrants?
**María Gonzalez:** Some key initiatives include community outreach programs, access to vocational training, psychosocial support, and healthcare services tailored to the needs of migrants. We are also focusing on legal assistance to help them navigate residency requirements and other bureaucratic challenges.
**Editor:** Given the ongoing economic challenges in Ecuador, how do you see the local communities responding to the influx of Venezuelan migrants?
**María Gonzalez:** It’s true that there are economic pressures, but we have seen remarkable solidarity from local communities. Many Ecuadorians have opened their homes and supported migrant families. Our plan also includes community engagement strategies to foster understanding and collaboration between locals and migrants, which is essential for social cohesion.
**Editor:** As the GTRM moves forward with this plan, what message do you want to convey to the public about the situation of Venezuelan migrants in Ecuador?
**María Gonzalez:** It’s important for the public to recognize the resilience of Venezuelan migrants and their contributions to Ecuadorian society. By supporting these individuals, we create a more inclusive community that benefits everyone. We must work together to ensure that their rights are protected and that they can thrive here.
**Editor:** Thank you, María, for sharing these insights. We appreciate your time and the vital work you and your organization are doing.
**María Gonzalez:** Thank you for raising awareness about this issue. It’s crucial that we all contribute to a compassionate and supportive response for those in need.
**Editor:** Given the ongoing economic challenges in Ecuador, how do you envision funding for this ambitious plan, which exceeds 288 million dollars?
**María Gonzalez:** Funding is indeed a critical component. We are actively seeking support from international donors, private sector partners, and humanitarian agencies to ensure the sustainability of our efforts. It’s vital to demonstrate that this investment not only aids migrants but also benefits local communities by fostering economic growth and social cohesion.
**Editor:** It sounds like a holistic approach. Can you elaborate on how the government of Ecuador is involved in this initiative?
**María Gonzalez:** The Ecuadorian government has been an essential partner throughout this process. We work closely with them to facilitate the registration and immigration regularization process for Venezuelans, which has already allowed around 90,000 individuals to legalize their status. Their commitment is crucial in enhancing food security and providing necessary protections for these migrants.
**Editor:** What are some of the challenges you’ve encountered in implementing this plan, and how do you plan to address them?
**María Gonzalez:** Some challenges include limited resources and the increasing number of vulnerable migrants arriving in Ecuador. To address these, we are focusing on building strong partnerships, advocating for additional support from the international community, and ensuring that our programs are adaptable to the changing dynamics of migration.
**Editor:** Lastly, what message do you have for the communities hosting Venezuelan migrants in Ecuador?
**María Gonzalez:** I want to highlight the importance of solidarity and compassion. The contributions of Venezuelan migrants can enrich local communities, and by promoting inclusion, we can build a stronger, more resilient society for everyone. Their presence is an opportunity for cultural exchange and economic revitalization that can benefit all Ecuadorians.
**Editor:** Thank you for your insights, María. We appreciate your time and the important work being done through the GTRM.
**María Gonzalez:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital to keep these conversations going as we work towards a more inclusive future for all.
