Expulsion of Congolese refugees to Tanzania: a controversial decision with potentially disastrous consequences
The decision announced by the Tanzanian President, Samia Suluhu Hassan, to expel Congolese and Burundian refugees present on her territory has sparked strong reactions and generated many questions. Estimated at around 250,000, these refugees fled armed conflicts and insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi to find refuge in Tanzania.
The motivations for this decision are multiple. On the one hand, the President evokes the economic constraints and security threats represented by the presence of these refugees. On the other hand, she questions the effectiveness and commitment of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in the management of the situation, stressing that the return of refugees should be done on a voluntary basis in accordance with the Convention of United Nations on refugees.
However, this decision to expel Congolese refugees raises many concerns and fears disastrous consequences. First of all, the security and humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo remains precarious, particularly in the east of the country where most refugees have fled armed conflicts. By repatriating these refugees in a context where the security situation has deteriorated, we risk exposing them to further violence and putting their lives in danger.
On a humanitarian level, the expulsion decision risks creating a major crisis. The country already faces nearly 6.9 million internally displaced people, and the return of Congolese refugees will further aggravate the situation. Refugee camps in Tanzania are already overcrowded, and the massive arrival of new refugees risks worsening living conditions and fueling the spread of diseases such as cholera.
Another potentially dangerous consequence is the possibility of these refugees joining armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Without the prospect of returning to a safe environment, some may be tempted to turn to violence and join the ranks of armed groups already present in the region.
Faced with this situation, it is essential that regional and sub-regional organizations, such as the African Union and the East African Community, provide financial support to Tanzania to address this crisis and avoid a humanitarian catastrophe. In addition, UNHCR must strengthen its efforts in refugee management and ensure that return takes place on a voluntary basis and in optimal security conditions.
For the Democratic Republic of Congo, it is crucial to put an end to the cycles of violence and instability that are pushing people to flee their country. Countering armed groups and creating a secure and stable environment will be essential to enable the safe and voluntary return of Congolese refugees.
In conclusion, the expulsion of Congolese refugees to Tanzania, if it materializes, could have disastrous consequences both on a humanitarian and security level. It is therefore essential that appropriate measures are taken to ensure the protection and well-being of these refugees, while working to resolve the root causes of the conflicts that are forcing them to flee their countries.