Ethiopia - Aisha: an inclusive financial product brings hope for host and refugee entrepreneurs: ILO and Shabelle Bank's innovative "Aisha" program provides Sharia-compliant financial solutions and education to refugees and host communities in Ethiopia, empowering entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable livelihoods. Read more here: https://www.ilo.org/resource/article/aisha-inclusive-financial-product-brings-hope-host-and-refugee

Partnership for Economic Inclusion, World Bank launched an enhanced Data Portal—your go-to resource for insights into economic inclusion programs. Now, you can explore the data behind the recent State of Economic Inclusion Report 2024: Pathways to Scale. With a brand-new searchable program database, the latest 2023 Landscape Survey data, and new country-level factsheets, finding detailed information on over 400 programs has never been easier. Whether you’re a policymaker, researcher, or practitioner, the portal offers powerful tools to inform your work and drive impact: https://www.peiglobal.org/tools-resources/data-portal?deliveryName=DM244430

The updated Education Brief presents a critical analysis of the education needs of Afghan refugees and host communities in Iran, emphasizing the need for greater international support. With millions of forcibly displaced persons in Iran, including many Afghan children, the country’s national education system is under significant strain. Overcrowded classrooms and limited school infrastructure have led to reduced enrolment capacity, particularly affecting undocumented children and girls. This Brief outlines how Iran’s inclusive policies have provided educational opportunities aligned with international human rights standards, yet more assistance is needed. It calls on donors to scale up responsibility-sharing to avoid a lost generation. Anchored in the Regional Refugee Response Plan (RRP) and the Global Refugee Forum commitments, the Brief also details a $119.3 million appeal by seven humanitarian organizations to improve education access, quality, and life-long learning pathways. By showcasing Iran as a viable alternative for continued education, especially for Afghan girls and youth, the Brief positions education as a catalyst for resilience, co-existence, and durable solutions. It highlights how investment in education contributes to well-being, economic empowerment, and the voluntary return of refugees, while strengthening community ties between Afghans and Iranians.