Parliament Urged to Review Uganda’s Open-Door Refugee Policy Amid Growing Influx

The parliamentary committee on Equal Opportunities urged for a review of the country’s refugee policy as Uganda grapples with a growing population of refugees.

In its report to parliament, the Committee on Equal Opportunities stated that the increasing numbers of refugees from neighboring countries were adversely affecting the provision of social services such as education and healthcare. Donor budget cuts have worsened the situation, leading to job losses for some teachers and reductions in food supplies for refugees.

The committee recommended to parliament that the country’s open-door policy, which allows refugees to enter freely, be reconsidered to manage the influx. Additionally, it suggested that the government collaborate with other nations and international organizations to relocate refugees to other countries.

However, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa noted the difficulty in changing the policy, emphasizing that individuals fleeing conflict cannot be denied safety.

Prime Minister Robinah Nabanjja echoed this sentiment in her address to parliament, stating that despite the challenges, Uganda would not reverse its policy of welcoming refugees. She emphasized Uganda’s international recognition for its commitment to providing refuge to those in need, highlighting the country’s participation in global refugee conferences.

Nabanjja acknowledged the decline in international funding for the refugee crisis due to competing global priorities but assured parliament that the government was taking steps to address the challenges posed by the refugee influx.

Following discussions, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa instructed the committee to review its report and report back to parliament.

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, Uganda remains the largest refugee-hosting country in Africa and the third-largest globally, accommodating approximately 1.6 million refugees, primarily from neighboring South Sudan.