Webinar on Realising the Socio-Economic Rights of Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Africa

The discussion included presentations from three notable scholars, Dr Bright Nkrumah, Professor Emma Charlene Lubaale and Ms Julie Lugulu – who explored the current legal challenges and opportunities impacting the realisation of rights of refugees and asylum seekers in the African context. Specifically, they explored issues of non-domestication of international norms and standards, the absence of legislation, and lack of political will by governments.

The discussants also showcased interesting perspectives on the lived reality of millions of refugees and asylum seekers across Africa. They addressed obstacles such as discriminatory perceptions, ongoing bureaucracy, resource constraints and the importance of intersectional approaches aimed at tackling specific vulnerabilities that refugees and asylum seekers face. Ultimately, if there is to be any progress toward improving the lives of refugees and asylum seekers in Africa, there must be commitment at a regional level, along with effective implementation by governments who are dedicated to ensuring that these members of society are not left behind, in the fight toward the realisation of socio-economic rights for all.