123 Experience - Refuges and Migrant

Refugees and Migrants

Refugee

Refugees are persons who are outside their country of origin for reasons of feared persecution, conflict, generalized violence, or other circumstances that have seriously disturbed public order and, as a result, require international protection. The refugee definition can be found in the 1951 Convention and regional refugee instruments, as well as UNHCR’s Statute.

--United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

Migrant

While there is no formal legal definition of an international migrant, most experts agree that an international migrant is someone who changes his or her country of usual residence, irrespective of the reason for migration or legal status. Generally, a distinction is made between short-term or temporary migration, covering movements with a duration between three and 12 months, and long-term or permanent migration, referring to a change of country of residence for a duration of one year or more.

- United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs

More on key migration terms.

WHY REFUGEE IN AFRICA?

Armed Conflict: Many refugees in Africa are fleeing armed conflicts and civil wars in their home countries. These conflicts often result from political instability, ethnic tensions, or competition over resources.
Persecution and Human Rights Violations: Some refugees are targeted by their own governments or non-state actors due to their ethnicity, religion, political beliefs, or other characteristics. They may face persecution, violence, discrimination, or threats to their safety and well-being.
Environmental Displacement: Environmental factors such as droughts, floods, desertification, and other natural disasters can force people to leave their homes in search of food, water, shelter, and livelihoods. Climate change is exacerbating these environmental challenges in many parts of Africa.
Economic Hardship: Poverty, unemployment, lack of economic opportunities, and socio-economic inequalities can push people to migrate in search of better living conditions and prospects for themselves and their families.
Violence and Insecurity: Refugees may flee due to generalized violence, gang activity, organized crime, or insecurity in their communities. This can include threats from armed groups, criminal gangs, or the breakdown of law and order.
Ethnic and Tribal Conflicts: Ethnic tensions, intercommunal violence, and conflicts over land, resources, or political power can result in displacement within and across national borders.
Political Instability and Repression: Political repression, authoritarian regimes, human rights abuses, and lack of democratic governance can compel people to seek refuge in other countries where they can enjoy freedom, security, and rights.

TAKE ACTION NOW

To take action to prevent yourself from becoming a refugee or being displaced due to various factors, you can focus on several key areas:

Addressing Climate Change: Given that environmental factors like natural disasters and climate change can contribute to displacement, you can take steps to reduce your carbon footprint and advocate for climate action. This includes reducing energy consumption, supporting renewable energy initiatives, and engaging in activism or advocacy efforts to address climate change on local, national, and global levels.
Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding: Support initiatives that promote peace, reconciliation, and conflict resolution in your community and beyond. This may involve participating in dialogue, mediation, or peacebuilding activities, as well as advocating for policies and programs that address the root causes of conflict and violence.
Advocating for Human Rights: Advocate for the protection of human rights, including the rights of marginalized groups, refugees, and displaced persons. Support organizations and campaigns that work to promote human rights, combat discrimination, and address social inequalities.
Building Resilience: Take steps to build personal and community resilience to potential hazards and risks. This may involve disaster preparedness planning, developing emergency response plans, and building strong social networks and support systems within your community.
Supporting Sustainable Development: Advocate for sustainable development policies and practices that prioritize social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Support initiatives that promote inclusive economic growth, access to education and healthcare, and the protection of natural resources and ecosystems.
Strengthening Community Connections: Build strong connections and networks within your community to foster mutual support, solidarity, and resilience. Participate in community-building activities, volunteer work, and initiatives that promote social cohesion and inclusion.
Seeking Legal Protection: Be aware of your rights and legal protections, both domestically and internationally. Seek legal advice and support if you face threats to your safety, security, or rights. Stay informed about relevant laws, policies, and resources that may offer protection or assistance.
Engaging in Dialogue and Advocacy: Engage in dialogue and advocacy efforts to raise awareness about the root causes of displacement and promote policies and solutions that address these issues. This may involve participating in public forums, writing letters to policymakers, and supporting advocacy campaigns focused on refugee rights and protection.

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