Policy dialogue is one of the four 2021-2023 ReDSS strategic pillars in support of ReDSS overall goal of improved durable solutions policies and programming that increases the potential of displacement-affected communities to integrate sustainably and to live safe, dignified and productive lives in East and Horn of Africa. The overall objective of ReDSS policy dialogue pillar is to facilitate and undertake constructive and influential policy dialogue at local, national and regional levels.

 

Policy dialogue is not a standalone objective or activity but is also mainstreamed across the three other ReDSS pillars (research and analysis, capacity development and coordination). The focus for ReDSS is the use of evidence, learning and analysis to influence policy dialogue through engaging in priority policy processes and with key actors.

 

Policy dialogue for ReDSS has both internal and external dimensions in terms of how ReDSS supports members and engages as a Secretariat. The 2021-2023 regional policy strategy lays out two outcomes as follows:

• Outcome 1: Strengthen ReDSS policy reach and impact through serving as a platform for engagement and dialogue informed by evidence and learning
• Outcome 2: Provide timely, evidence-based policy advice and analysis that orient policy processes towards solutions to displacement

Since 2015 ReDSS and its members have managed to create a space to talk about durable solutions, and initiated and engaged in policy processes and programming solutions. ReDSS has also engaged with development actors and donors contributing to a shift in addressing protracted displacements. ReDSS has acted as a coordination and information hub contributing to improved joint learning and programming for durable solutions. In particular, ReDSS and members have engaged in constructive and influential policy dialogue with key national and regional policy actors and processes at the local, national, regional and global levels.