Across Africa, millions have been forced from their homes by conflict, persecution and instability. They did not choose exile. They chose survival. Africa has a proud tradition of asylum. Ethiopia, Uganda, Tanzania, Kenya and many others have long opened their doors to those fleeing danger, hosting millions of refugees and asylum-seekers. This solidarity must be preserved, beginning with respect for asylum and the fundamental principle of non-refoulement. But solidarity cannot rest principally upon countries that happen to share borders with crises.
Host states and communities are being asked to shoulder enormous responsibilities while humanitarian resources decline. Responsibility-sharing must therefore become a reality, not merely an international commitment. This requires the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, development partners and the private sector to complement humanitarian assistance by supporting national systems that include refugees in education, health services and economic life.
Above all, we must change how we see refugees. A refugee is not simply a person with needs. He/She may be a teacher, doctor, farmer, entrepreneur or engineer. Given education, the right to work and access to economic opportunities, refugees can contribute to the societies that protect them.
And we must never forget prevention. Every refugee crossing a border tells us something about conditions in the country left behind. Refugees are not a burden. They are human beings with rights, dignity, skills and aspirations. Africa must offer protection at the border, opportunity after arrival—and greater courage in addressing the conflicts and atrocities that force people to flee.
