Advocacy for improving the living conditions of people forced to flee their homes is at the heart of the concerns of state and non-state actors and development partners. Gathered during a forum organized by the UNHCR on the occasion of World Refugee Day, in Kinshasa, these actors highlighted the crucial importance of supporting these vulnerable populations.
Discussions focused on key topics such as self-reliance, development of agricultural value chains and the urgent needs of displaced people. This exchange of ideas allowed the government, local authorities, diplomats, donors, as well as humanitarian and development actors, to think together about possible solutions to alleviate the plight of refugees.
It is undeniable that the Democratic Republic of Congo is currently hosting a significant population of refugees from neighboring countries such as the Central African Republic, Rwanda, Burundi and South Sudan. With 526,000 refugees on its territory, the DRC faces a major humanitarian challenge that requires concerted action and strengthened international solidarity.
The UNHCR representative in the DRC, Angèle Dikongue, underlined the importance of everyone’s commitment to the search for peace, a sine qua non condition for offering a better future to these displaced populations. It is crucial to put in place sustainable and inclusive solutions to guarantee the protection and well-being of these people in vulnerable situations.
In conclusion, this plea in favor of refugees highlights the need for immediate and coordinated action to meet the essential needs of displaced populations. It is our duty as a society to mobilize to ensure the dignity and respect for the fundamental rights of those who have been forced to leave their homes. The solidarity and commitment of all are essential to building a fairer and more humane future for all.