What are Differences between IDPs and refugee? What are Principles of Collaborative and Cluster approach? Who are Institutional actors involved IDPs protection? ?

1. Differences between IDPs and refugees:
- IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) are individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict, violence, natural disasters, or human rights violations, but remain within the borders of their own country. Refugees, on the other hand, are individuals who have fled their country of origin and crossed an international border to seek safety in another country.
- IDPs are protected under the laws and regulations of their own country, while refugees are protected under international refugee law, including the 1951 Refugee Convention.
- IDPs may face similar challenges as refugees, such as lack of access to basic services and protection, but they may also face additional challenges related to their legal status and rights within their own country.

2. Principles of Collaborative and Cluster approach:
- Collaborative approach: This approach involves bringing together various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, international organizations, and local communities, to work together towards a common goal. Collaboration allows for the sharing of resources, expertise, and responsibilities, leading to more effective and sustainable solutions to complex problems.
- Cluster approach: The cluster approach is a system used in humanitarian response to coordinate the efforts of different organizations working in the same sector, such as health, shelter, or protection. Each cluster is led by a designated agency and is responsible for coordinating the activities of all organizations working within that sector to ensure a more coordinated and efficient response.

3. Institutional actors involved in IDPs protection:
- Government agencies: National governments are responsible for the protection and assistance of IDPs within their borders. This includes providing access to basic services, ensuring the safety and security of IDPs, and addressing their specific needs.
- United Nations agencies: UN agencies, such as UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) and UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund), play a key role in providing protection and assistance to IDPs, including shelter, food, healthcare, and education.
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): NGOs, such as the International Rescue Committee and the Norwegian Refugee Council, are often on the front lines of providing humanitarian assistance to IDPs, including emergency shelter, food aid, and psychosocial support.
- International organizations: Organizations such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) also play a crucial role in protecting and assisting IDPs, including providing legal assistance, family tracing services, and support for durable solutions.

Differences between IDPs and Refugees

| Feature | IDPs (Internally Displaced Persons) | Refugees |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Individuals who are forced to flee their homes within their own country but remain within its borders | Individuals who have crossed an international border and are unable or unwilling to return to their country of origin |
| International protection | Not entitled to international protection under the 1951 Refugee Convention | Eligible for international protection under the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol |
| Legal status | Remain citizens of their own country | Lose their citizenship and may acquire refugee status in another country |
| Mobility | Typically move within their own country | Cross international borders |
| Causes of displacement | Conflict, natural disasters, development projects | Persecution, war, violence |
| Return | May eventually return to their homes | May face challenges and restrictions when returning home |

Principles of Collaborative and Cluster Approach

| Principle | Description |
|---|---|
| Leadership | Strong leadership and coordination from relevant stakeholders |
| Partnership | Collaboration between humanitarian and development actors, as well as with affected populations |
| Needs-based | Assessments and interventions based on the needs of affected populations |
| Accountability | Clear accountability for actions and results |
| Flexibility | Ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances |
| Inclusion | Participation and representation of affected populations in decision-making |
| Complementarity | Avoidance of duplication and coordination of efforts among stakeholders |

Institutional Actors Involved in IDP Protection

- UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees): Lead agency for protecting and assisting IDPs
- Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC): Monitors and reports on internal displacement globally
- UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Internally Displaced Persons: Advocates for the protection and rights of IDPs
- International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC): Provides humanitarian assistance and protection to IDPs
- National Governments: Primarily responsible for protecting and assisting IDPs within their borders
- NGOs and Civil Society Organizations: Provide assistance, advocate for IDP rights, and monitor displacement situations