ABSTRACT
The contemporary refugee crises across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa have captured the world’s attention. Much of the existing discourse has focused on the humanitarian and security implications that this crisis will have, specifically for developed regions such as the European Union.[1]
Through exploring the existing academic and popular literature around historical and contemporary case studies, this paper has identified some of the key positive and negative effects that refugee crises can have on the host country, especially the economic effects. On the positive side, refugees can be a boon to the host country by (1) spurring long-term investment (2) filling needed demographic gaps (3) integrating effectively into the labour market (4) becoming productive economic consumers and producers and (5) by increasing bilateral trade with the country of origin. On the negative side, refugees can be a burden to the host country by (1) straining public and private services (2) causing physical and economic overcrowding and (3) increasing societal strife and the potential for civil conflict.[2]
This paper will identify the possible positive and negative impacts of the refugee crisis on host nations, while trying to provide possible solutions to tackle this issue.
KEYWORDS
Refugee, crisis, economic effect, host, country.
INTRODUCTION
A refugee[1] is a “displaced person who has been forced to cross national boundary and who cannot return home safely.” No one likes or chooses to be a refugee. Being a refugee means more than being an alien. It means living in exile and depending on others for such basic needs as food, clothing and shelter.[2]
The refugee crisis has become a global issue that has affected several nations around the world. The crisis has been caused by several factors such as war, political instability, economic hardship, and natural disasters. The impact of the crisis on nations that are helping refugees has been significant. These impacts can include economic strain, cultural clashes, and political tensions. Despite these challenges, many nations continue to offer asylum to refugees in need, recognizing the importance of providing a safe haven for those fleeing persecution and violence.
From the moment of arrival, refugees may compete with local citizens for scarce resources such as water, food, housing and medical services. Their presence increases the demands for education, health services, infrastructure such as water supply, sanitation and transportation, and also in some cases, for natural resources such as grazing and firewood.[3]
IMPACT ON THE NATIONS HELPING REFUGEES
One of the impacts of the refugee crisis on nations helping refugees is the strain on that country’s resources.[1] Nations that are helping refugees have to provide food, shelter, and other basic needs for the refugees. This can be a significant burden on the resources of the host nation, especially if the number of refugees is large.
The strain on resources can also affect the quality of life of the local people as the government may have to divert resources from other areas to cater to the needs of the refugees.
Another impact of the refugee crisis on nations helping refugees is the impact on the economy. Nations that are helping refugees may experience a strain on their economy as they have to provide resources for the refugees. This may affect the ability of the government to invest in other areas of the economy. Additionally, the presence of refugees may affect the job market as they may take up jobs that would have been available to the locals.
Furthermore, the refugee crisis may have an impact on the social fabric of the host nation.[2] The presence of refugees may lead to tensions between the locals and the refugees. The differences in culture, language, and religion may lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. This can lead to social unrest and affect the stability of the host nation.
It is important for nations to work together to find solutions to the refugee crisis. This includes supporting countries that are most affected by the crisis and providing resources to help them cope with the influx of refugees. It also includes addressing the root causes of the crisis, such as conflict and economic instability, to prevent further displacement of people.
In addition, it is important for nations to recognize the contributions that refugees can make to their host communities. Many refugees have skills and talents that can benefit the host nation’s economy and society. By providing education and training opportunities, nations can help refugees contribute to their communities and reduce the negative impact of the crisis.
Finally, it is important for nations to uphold the human rights of refugees and treat them with dignity and respect. This includes providing them with access to basic services such as healthcare, education, and employment, as well as protecting them from discrimination and violence.
PROTECTION OF REFUGEES UNDER THE GENEVA CONVENTION
The Geneva Convention is a series of international agreements ratified by most countries in the world. The convention outlines the basic human rights that must be afforded to all people, regardless of their race, religion, or nationality. One of the key provisions of the Geneva Convention is the protection of refugees.
A refugee is defined as someone who has fled their country of origin due to persecution, war, or violence.[1] The Geneva Convention provides these individuals with certain rights and protections, including the right to seek asylum in another country.
The Convention relating to the status of Refugees or the 1951 Refugee Convention is a UN Multilateral treaty that defines what a refugee is and outlines the rights of those who are given asylum as well as the obligations of the countries that do so. The Agreement clearly specifies who is ineligible for refugee status, including war criminals.[2] Also, the Convention permits some visa – free travel for those who possess refugee travel credentials issued in accordance with the Convention.[3] The 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights’ Article 14[4] (which acknowledges the right of individuals to seek asylum from persecution in other nations) serves as the foundation for the convention. A refugee may be granted additional rights and advantages in a state than those outlined in the Convention.[5]
In recent years, the world has seen a significant increase in the number of refugees due to conflicts in Syria, Afghanistan, and other parts of the world. This has led to a global refugee crisis, with millions of people displaced from their homes and seeking refuge in other countries. The current crisis in Ukraine and Palestine have not helped the situation either.
Unfortunately, not all countries are willing to accept refugees, and many refugees are forced to live in overcrowded and dangerous conditions in refugee camps. This has led to concerns about the violation of the basic human rights of refugees, as outlined in the Geneva Convention.
In response to the refugee crisis, many countries and organizations have called for increased support for refugees and for the protection of their rights under the Geneva Convention. This includes providing refugees with access to basic services such as food, shelter, and medical care, as well as ensuring their safety and security.
The Geneva Convention is a crucial tool in protecting the rights of refugees around the world. As the global refugee crisis continues to grow, it is important that we continue to uphold the principles outlined in the convention and work to provide refugees with the support and protection they need.
THE ROHINGYA CRISIS
The Rohingya crisis is a long-standing humanitarian issue in Myanmar that has resulted in the displacement of thousands of Rohingya people. The Rohingya are an ethnic Muslim minority group who have lived in Myanmar’s Rakhine state for generations. However, they are not recognized as citizens by the Myanmar government and have been subjected to persecution, violence, and discrimination for decades.
In August 2017, the situation escalated when the Myanmar military launched a crackdown on the Rohingya people, resulting in over 700,000 Rohingyas fleeing to neighbouring Bangladesh. This has led to a refugee crisis, with many of the refugees living in overcrowded camps with limited access to basic necessities such as food, water, and healthcare. The COVID-19 pandemic has further complicated the situation, placing the refugees at an even greater risk.[1]
International organizations and governments around the world have been working to provide aid and support to the Rohingya refugees. However, a lasting solution to the crisis has yet to be found. The Myanmar government must take responsibility for the persecution of the Rohingya people and work towards a peaceful resolution that recognizes their right to citizenship and provides them with the protections they deserve.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the refugee crisis is a complex issue that requires a coordinated and compassionate response from nations around the world. By working together to address the root causes of the crisis, providing resources to support affected countries, and upholding the human rights of refugees, nations can help minimize the impact of the crisis on host communities and create a more just and inclusive world.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The refugee crisis is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted solution. Here are some potential steps that could be taken to address the crisis:
- Address the root causes: The refugee crisis is often a symptom of larger problems such as war, poverty, and persecution. Addressing these root causes may help to reduce the number of people who are forced to flee their homes.[1]
- Increase international cooperation: The refugee crisis is a global issue that requires a global response. Countries around the world should work together to develop coordinated strategies for addressing the crisis.
- Provide aid and support: Refugees often face significant challenges in terms of access to basic needs like food, shelter, and healthcare. Providing aid and support to refugees can help to alleviate some of the immediate challenges they face.
- Increase resettlement efforts: For refugees who cannot return home, resettlement in a new country may be the best option. Countries around the world should work to increase their resettlement efforts and provide refugees with the support they need to rebuild their lives.
- Address xenophobia and discrimination: Many refugees face discrimination and hostility when they arrive in new countries. Addressing xenophobia and discrimination can help to create a more welcoming environment for refugees.
These are just a few potential steps that could be taken to address the refugee crisis. Ultimately, solving this complex issue will require a coordinated effort from governments, NGOs, and individuals around the world. By taking these steps, it is possible to make a real difference in the lives of refugees and help create a more stable and secure world.
Above we have discussed general steps to combat the refugee problem around the world.
We will now more specifically discuss potential specific solutions to the Rohingya refugee crisis –
The Rohingya refugee crisis is a complex and ongoing issue that requires a multi-faceted solution. Here are some potential steps towards a resolution:
- International intervention: The international community can play a vital role in putting pressure on the government of Myanmar to address the root causes of the crisis and to provide support for refugees.
- Diplomatic efforts: Diplomatic efforts can help to create a dialogue between Myanmar and Bangladesh to resolve the issue of repatriation of Rohingya refugees.
- Economic sanctions: Economic sanctions can be imposed on Myanmar to put pressure on the government to take action to resolve the crisis.
- Humanitarian aid: The provision of humanitarian aid to Rohingya refugees can help to alleviate their suffering and provide them with basic necessities.
- Citizenship: The government of Myanmar can grant citizenship to the Rohingya population, which would provide them with legal rights and protections.
- Long-term solutions: A long-term solution to the crisis requires addressing the root causes of the conflict, including discrimination against the Rohingya population, and promoting economic and social development in the region.
It is important to recognize that there is no simple solution to the Rohingya refugee crisis, and that a comprehensive and sustained effort will be required to achieve a resolution. However, implementing the above steps can be a step in the right direction towards a sustainable solution.
[1] Supra note 4
[1] Ibid, Rohingya refugee crisis explained, https://www.unrefugees.org/news/rohingya-refugee-crisis-explained/ (last visited Mar. 26, 2023).
[1] Supra note 3
[2] Ibid
[3] Ibid
[4] The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, 1948, art 14
[5] The UNHRC, Convention and Protocol relating to the status of refugees, https://www.unhcr.org/3b66c2aa10
[1] Ibid
[2] Schneiderheinze et. al, Socio – economic impacts of refugees on host communities in developing countries, PEGNet Policy Studies, No. 03/2020, Kiel Institute for the World Economy (IfW), Poverty Reduction, Equity and Growth Network (PEGNet).
[1] Art 1, 1951 Refugee Convention
[2] Barman, B.C. (2020), Impact of Refugees on Host Developing Countries, Das, S.K. and Chowdhary, N. (Ed.) Refugee Crises and Third-World Economies, Emerald Publishing Limited, Bingley, pp. 103-111. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-83982-190-520201011 https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/978-1-83982-190-520201011/full/html?skipTracking=true
[3] Ibid
[1] Kevin Shellito, The Economic Effect of Refugee Crises on Host Countries, JOSEPH WHARTON SCHOLARS (Mar. 25, 2023, 9 PM), https://repository.upenn.edu/joseph_wharton_scholars/3
[2] Ibid
