Contributions of the international community to refugee governance in Uganda
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Date
2019-05
Authors
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Kampala International University, College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Abstract
This study assessed the contributions of the international community towards refugee governance in Uganda, with the objective of evaluating the impact of forced migration and refugee crisis on Uganda, and assessing the role of international organizations and the challenges they face. Owing to the nature of this study, it took on the international relations theory of Rational Choice Institutionalism (RCI). RCI is a theoretical model that explains institutions with a premise that different institutions actors use institutions to maximize their utility and decision making. Through the use of an exploratory design and by utilizing a sample of 125 participants; key informant interviews and focus group discussions, demographic characteristics and key themes were identified, This study revealed that refugees who are engaged in gainful employment can ultimately contribute to the national GDP, although the negative consequences such as increased economic burden and strain on the social services are still dominating the consequences. In addition, lNGOs continuously engage in activities that empower refugees through helping them build efficient social, economic and cultural ties with the host government and community, despite the overwhelming number of refugees and their governance programs being bitterly underfunded. The study argues that although INGO’s, continue to offer commendable lifesaving protection, and advocacy, as well as livelihood support, more refugees are in need of gainful employment, capacity building and empowerment. This study concludes that funding aid cuts have severely affected most INGOs programs particularly those that deal in education, health water/sanitation, and shelter. The study recommends engagement of refugees and other migrants into viable self-reliance ventures and livelihood programs that will curb unemployment and lessen the burden on the INGO’s and the host county. There is need to fully protect all refugees regardless of their historical circumstances or background. This study appeals to the donor community to increase funding for refugees and adopt fair policies that aim at welcoming refugees and migrants to their countries, and lift a burden on some poor countries that are feeling a full weight of the refugee plight.
Description
A thesis report submitted to the college of humanities and social sciences in partial fulfillment for the requirements of the award of the degree of masters of Arts in international relations and diplomatic studies of Kampala International University
Keywords
International community, Refugee