How economic inclusion enables refugees

This article was originally published by Western Union.

Lubab’s Story: Contributing in the Fight Against COVID-19

The Western Union Foundation believes refugee integration into the global economy benefits all. To build on progress made to date, the Center for Global Development and Refugees International are embarking on a joint initiative funded by the Western Union Foundation and IKEA Foundation. The following is authored by Kailey Love from Refugees International, to share the story of Lubab, and the importance of economic inclusion.

Economic inclusion, and with it, access to the labor market is a critical right to refugees around the world. As refugees are allowed to work and exercise their professions, they not only become more self-reliant and resilient, but they are also able to integrate into their local economies and societies, putting their skills and knowledge at the service of their host communities.

The story of Lubab, an Iraqi refugee resettled in the United States, portrays the hardships and the benefits of refugee economic inclusion. With the support of Refugee Congress, Refugee Council USA, We Are All America, and other partners, we are able to raise Lubab’s voice and highlight the many contributions that refugees can bring to their host communities when given the chance.

Lubab al-Quraishi spent six years after resettling in the United States trying to break back into the medical field. In her home country, she worked as a pathologist and a professor for years. When she first resettled in the United States, she worked as a cashier at a fast-food restaurant. Now, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, she leads a team of international doctors to conduct coronavirus tests in New York nursing homes.

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