“I don’t feel Like a refugee anymore”: the story of Syrians Abdel Rahman and Mohammad in Jordan

Amman, JORDAN – Abdel Rahman al Fares and Mohammed Kooka are two confectionery workers from Syria, living in Jordan as a result of the over decade-old war in their country. Finding a decent job has helped them establish their new lives in the host country, earning enough money to support their families.

Based on this year’s theme for World Refugee Day: "Hope away from home. A world where refugees are always included," their stories show how crucial it is to find solutions for refugees in the countries where they seek refuge and how essential their inclusion in new societies is for their future and to better contribute to the economic development of the host country.

“The reality of our story is that there is no difference between Jordanians and Syrians,” says Kooka, illustrating his successful integration into his new life.

This gives hope to many.

“The word ‘refugee’ has given me problems from the beginning; wherever I went, it reminded me of tents, food parcels, and war,” says al Fares. “Then, after some time passed and Syrians were allowed to work, we could finally forget the word ‘refugee.’ I don't feel like a refugee anymore.”

Decent work leads to decent living conditions, which eventually results in stability, inclusion, and the chance to rebuild one’s future despite displacement, challenges, and hardships.

The ILO, through the PROSPECTS Programme umbrella, a global partnership supported by the Government of the Netherlands, has been supporting refugees and host communities in Jordan since 2019, focusing on education, employment, and protection to enhance their present and future prospects.