The Refugees Act, No. 21 of 2006 has been the primary regulatory framework governing refugees in Uganda since its enactment. However, considering the persisting challenges faced by refugees, refugee managers, and host communities, a comprehensive review of the Act was undertaken during the financial year 2018/2019. The review aimed to address emerging issues and improve the management of refugees in the country.
The review process focused on various aspects of the Refugees Act, No. 21 of 2006, including the application procedure for refugee status, freedom of movement and choice of settlement, access to work permits and education for refugees. Additionally, other pertinent issues, such as stigmatization of refugees by health workers, the role of local governments in refugee management, refugees' gainful employment, settlement policy sustainability, and the relationship between refugees and host communities, were also considered.
The study was conducted in different refugee settlements, namely Rwamwanja in Isingiro, Nakivaale in Kamwenge, Bidi Bidi in Yumbe, Pagirinya in Adjumani districts, and in the capital city, Kampala.
Key Findings and Recommendations
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- Effective Performance of Refugee Eligibility Committee: The Refugee Eligibility Committee, responsible for assessing refugee status, was found to be largely effective in carrying out its mandate under the Refugees Act, 2006.
- Inclusion of Ministry Representative: To strengthen regional representation on refugee matters, the review recommended including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of East African Community Affairs (MEACA) as a member of the Refugee Eligibility Committee.
- Reduction of Quorum: To expedite decision-making, the review proposed reducing the quorum required for the Refugee Eligibility Committee from five members to three members.
- Multilingual Application Procedures: Considering the diversity of languages spoken by refugees, it was recommended that the application procedures for refugee status be translated into easily understood languages such as French, Swahili, Kinyarwanda, Arabic, and Kirundi, in addition to English.
The completion of the review of the Refugees Act, No. 21 of 2006 marks a significant step in addressing the challenges faced by refugees, managers, and host communities in Uganda. The comprehensive study and proposed amendments underscore the country's commitment to enhancing the management of refugees, ensuring their rights are protected, and fostering harmonious relationships between refugees and their host communities. By implementing the key recommendations, Uganda aims to build a more inclusive and sustainable framework for the protection and integration of refugees within its borders.
Category:
Completed Projects