Refugee Rights Group Raises Concerns over 'Unsustainable' Resettlement
The group also raised concerns from local chiefs about the camps' "negative environmental impact."
LILONGWE, Malawi - Inua Advocacy, an independent civil society organization championing refugee rights in Malawi, has reiterated its reservations concerning the "unsustainable" policy of indefinite encampment and resettlement of refugees without a sustainability plan, writes Bridgette Mwanoka.
In a statement Saturday, the organization said the early return of refugees to localities validates its initial concerns over the policy.
"This approach relies solely on encampment without addressing inherent challenges," said Matchona Phiri-Inua Advocacy Liaison Officer.
The refugee rights group said challenges include limited access to livelihood opportunities, strained social services in camps, and dependence on "meager aid insufficient for human survival."
The response comes after the government's Jan. 18 notification regarding the return of refugees and asylum seekers from Dzaleka refugee camp to Lilongwe neighborhoods.
Inua Advocacy said the move underscores the need to consider implications on refugee and host community well-being and self-sufficiency.
It highlighted the "dire education situation" for children at the camp, which it said violates Malawi's commitment to the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The group also raised concerns from local chiefs about the camps' "negative environmental impact."
Inua Advocacy called for expediting the review of refugee laws, bringing to justice those involved in refugee property theft and resettlement corruption, and open dialogue on aid devaluation effects.