Internal Displacement to Tripoli City: A Study of Its Causes and Social Dimensions from the Perspective of the Displaced Themselves

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the underlying causes of internal displacement to the city of Tripoli and monitor its social dimensions from the perspective of the displaced themselves. The study adopted a descriptive approach, with data collected from a random sample of (94) displaced persons, contacted through displacement offices and committees in Tripoli municipal councils. Data were statistically processed using (Excel) through available descriptive analysis tools including frequencies, percentages, weighted mean, standard deviation, percentage weight, and ranking. The results revealed that security factors (17.87%) and political factors (17.46%) are the most significant causes of displacement, while tribal and social discrimination (17.05%) also emerged as an important factor. Regarding social dimensions, increasing livelihood needs (14.59%) stood out as the most prominent challenge, followed by negative impacts on family relationships (14.25%) and loss of trust in institutions (13.91%). The study concluded that the causes of displacement to Tripoli vary between push factors from areas of origin and pull factors toward the receiving city. Additionally, displacement is not merely an escape from danger but also a search for a better life. Internal displacement to Tripoli creates profound transformations in the social structure of the displaced, ranging between material and psychological impacts. The study recommends directing support programs and mechanisms toward addressing the livelihood needs of the displaced as a priority, followed by psychosocial support, then restoring institutional trust, and enhancing social integration with the host community.