UNHCR praises Cameroon for its new framework providing identity documents for refugees, essential for access to services and integration. With over 1.4 million displaced individuals, these efforts are vital; however, continued international support is crucial for their success. Increased funding is necessary to sustain these initiatives, especially amid record global displacement levels.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has commended Cameroon for adopting an inclusive framework addressing forced displacement issues by issuing identity documents, including biometric cards to refugees. With over 1.4 million displaced individuals and nearly 1 million internally displaced persons, these measures are crucial, as they enable access to healthcare, education, and employment, thereby fostering integration and stability within the population.
In February 2025, Cameroon implemented a national initiative to further issue identification documents, including residence permits and national disability cards. The collaboration between the Cameroonian Government and UNHCR aims to guarantee recognition and inclusion of all refugees, paving the way towards sustainable solutions for displaced individuals.
Yvette Muhimpundu, the UNHCR Representative in Cameroon, expressed pride in the partnership outcome, emphasizing the importance of identity documents. These are critical for refugees to gain recognition from authorities and to access basic services. “This decree is a testament to Cameroon’s dedication…the identity card is a lifesaving tool…,” she stated, highlighting its necessity for achieving self-reliance among displaced populations.
The Cameroon government has initiated several programs to enhance refugee care, including a biometric identification system that has successfully issued legal identification to 25,000 refugees, thus improving their access to essential services and fostering economic opportunities. For individuals such as Shelley Teckombi, who lacked documentation for seven years, the biometric ID serves as a significant enabler for stability, allowing her access to education and healthcare without fear of arrest.
While Cameroon has made substantial progress in refugee inclusion, international support remains crucial to sustain these efforts. Continued funding is needed to maintain and enhance these initiatives, ensuring that refugees and internally displaced persons can access necessary services for successful integration and self-sufficiency. With global displacement reaching unprecedented levels, a coordinated response is essential, underscoring the necessity for increased support from the international community.
In conclusion, Cameroon’s efforts to introduce identity documents for refugees mark a significant step toward improving the inclusion of forcibly displaced populations. The necessity for continued international support cannot be overstated; it is vital for sustaining these initiatives, which ultimately aim to facilitate the integration and self-reliance of refugees. As such, a collective and supportive global response is required to address the ongoing challenges of displacement effectively.
Original Source: www.unhcr.org
