Plan for a Dynamic Future: Develop more granular and coordinated data collection to improve integration initiatives

Without detailed data on each stage of migration — from journey, to arrival, to workforce integration, to second and third generation outcomes — policy makers and stakeholders are limited in developing the most effective interventions possible. As urban centers continue to attract migrants, the need for more granular data grows considerably. Its availability plays a fundamental role in the success of all the strategic approaches outlined in this report.

We currently see enormous gaps in data collection, but cities that recognize the importance of this issue have begun to address it. Many are gathering reliable data from migrants themselves through welcome centers, and are experimenting with standardizing data capture and building platforms to share the data with different departments, residents, and other cities.

Examples from the 100RC Network

Los Angeles — GeoHub Open Data Portal
In 2016, the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office partnered with Esri, the world’s leader in geographic information systems (GIS) technology, to launch GeoHub — the city’s new public platform for exploring, visualizing, and downloading location-based Open Data in real time. The portal allows decision-makers, first responders, partners, and the public to access an extensive collection of data from more than 20 different city departments and partners. Users can sort and combine thousands of layers of information sorted into categories varying from locations of immigration service centers to changes in neighborhood demographics. The goal is to help Angelinos better understand their communities, and city departments better coordinate service provision, infrastructure projects, and other planning decisions.

Visit GeoHub at: http://geohub.lacity.org

Practitioner Resources

International Organization of Migration
Displacement Tracking Matrix

The Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) is a system to track and monitor population displacement and mobility. It is designed to regularly and systematically capture, process, and disseminate information on the movements and evolving needs of displaced populations, whether in situ or en route. With systems ranging from simple databases to comprehensive information management platforms, the DTM offers adaptability and flexibility through mobility tracking, flow monitoring, registration, and surveys. Currently used at the country level, the DTM could be adjusted for application at the city level, where most migrants live.

Explore the DTM at: http://www.globaldtm.info/

International Rescue Committee
Refugee Information Hub

In partnership with Google and Mercy Corps, the International Rescue Committee developed RefugeeInfo.eu, a platform accessible by mobile phone that provides up-to-date, location-specific information to refugees arriving in Europe. The site provides information about available lodging, transportation options, humanitarian services, medical facilities, and registration processes. It also outlines important laws that affect new arrivals, informing them of their rights and responsibilities. It is available in multiple languages such as Arabic, Pashto, Farsi, and Greek. The site is open-source and built so that it can be deployed in different countries. Cities collecting important data from urban refugees and other displaced populations can become important partners in providing localized information for the platform, helping implementing partners by adding an urban layer to the tool.

Access the Refugee Information Hub at: https://www.refugee.info

100RC Platform Partner in Action

Esri — Survey 123

100RC Platform Partner Esri, a world leader in GIS technology, has developed a simple and intuitive data gathering solution to replace less reliable paper-based data collection for practitioners. This tool can be used in different settings, including emergency and humanitarian situations. For example, medical aid workers from Direct Relief used the app to quicken the pace of the triage of Syrian refugees in Jordan[ii]. With the app on their mobile devices, Direct Relief medical teams were able to treat and collect data, while working offline, on more than 1,200 patients in just six days. Municipalities like Paris[iii] and Thessaloniki[iv], which have opened urban reception centers for refugees and migrants, can leverage Survey 123 to collect reliable data from the vulnerable populations they aim to serve, and use this needs-based approach to inform important planning decisions.

Credit: Esri