MHRC Convenes Meeting on Refugee, Asylum Seeker Rights
The meeting comes amid growing concerns over the plight of refugees and asylum seekers in Malawi, with reports of discrimination, limited access to basic services.
BLANTYRE, Malawi— The Malawi Human Rights Commission (MHRC) hosted a regional stakeholders meeting on Friday to discuss and advance the rights of refugees, asylum seekers, and other migrants, writes Mayamiko Phiri.
The one-day conference in Blantyre brought together district commissioners, traditional authorities, and other stakeholders to enhance collaboration and share ideas on protecting the dignity and rights of these vulnerable groups.
MHRC Commissioner Andrew Kavala hailed the meeting as vital, saying it was the first of its kind and aimed to ensure the rights of refugees, asylum seekers, and migrants are upheld.
"We are doing well on taking care of refugees, asylum seekers and other migrants, still there is a gap to ensure that they are given much protection which they need," Kavala stated.
Niyibigira Goreth, the Burundi community leader at Dzeleka refugee camp, welcomed the meeting, expressing hope that it would provide solutions to some of the challenges faced by refugees.
"Regardless of our academic qualifications, we can't secure a job, as is prohibited under the country's law," she said, highlighting one of the key issues.
Quote: "Securing documents is hindering some refugees from studying abroad," Goreth said.
The meeting comes amid growing concerns over the plight of refugees and asylum seekers in Malawi, with reports of discrimination, limited access to basic services, and restrictions on employment opportunities.
Human rights organizations have called on the government to review its policies and ensure compliance with international conventions on the protection of refugees and asylum seekers.
By bringing together key stakeholders, the MHRC aims to foster a collaborative approach in addressing these challenges and promoting the rights and dignity of these vulnerable groups within Malawi's borders.