World Refugee Day: “Gabon does not have many left” (Evelyne Otsobogo) – AGP

Gabon Celebrates World Refugee Day with a Decrease in Refugee Numbers

LIBREVILLE, June 20 (AGP) – On June 20, the world celebrated World Refugee Day, and Gabon joined in the commemoration. Currently, Gabon is hosting around 300 refugees, with the majority located in the provinces of Ogooué-Ivindo and Haut-Ogooué. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Hope far from home.”

An asylum seeker is someone who has left their country but has not yet had their case examined by the requested country, and therefore does not have refugee status. On the other hand, a refugee is someone who has been granted asylum.

During a conference held at Omar Bongo University the day before the celebration, Evelyne Otsobogo, the itinerant ambassador in charge of the National Commission for Refugees (CNR), stated that Gabon no longer needs to claim its status as a land of asylum. She emphasized that Gabon is a country known for its legendary hospitality and has made efforts to ensure the free movement of refugees within the country. This includes the adoption of law 5/98 on the status of refugees in the Gabonese Republic, additional decrees, and the establishment of the National Commission for Refugees.

Refugees in Gabon also benefit from support and inclusion within Gabonese society. They are provided with biometric passports, which demonstrates the commitment of the Gabonese authorities to their protection.

Marius Kevin Ndzengue, the representative of the Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), praised Gabon for its welcoming approach to refugees, stating that it serves as a model for Central Africa.

Evelyne Otsobogo revealed that the number of refugees in Gabon has significantly decreased, with many returning to their countries of origin or acquiring Gabonese nationality. As a result, the office of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) will be closing after 24 years of continuous presence in Gabon. However, Otsobogo assured that the partnership between Gabon and UNHCR will continue, despite the physical closure of the office.

World Refugee Day provides an opportunity for resident refugees and asylum seekers, who have been victims of persecution and wars in their home countries, to advocate for conflict resolution and the integration of long-term refugees within Gabon. They call upon Gabonese authorities and international organizations such as the United Nations, the African Union, Ceeac, and Cemac to invest more in these efforts.

Overall, Gabon’s commitment to refugee protection and integration has been recognized, and the country continues to strive towards providing a safe haven for those in need.

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2) What efforts has Gabon made to provide assistance and support to refugees, and how have international organizations like UNHCR played a role in this

Ugees, revealed that Gabon has seen a significant decrease in the number of refugees in recent years. In 2016, there were over 12,000 refugees in the country, but now, there are only 300. This decrease in numbers can be attributed to the successful repatriation and resettlement programs implemented by the government.

One of the main factors contributing to this decrease is the improved security situation in the countries that the refugees fled from. Otsobogo stated that conflicts in neighboring countries, such as the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo, have been resolved or have significantly reduced, allowing refugees to return home.

Gabon has also made efforts to provide assistance and support to refugees. The country has implemented programs to ensure their access to education, healthcare, and other basic needs. Additionally, the government has worked closely with international organizations, such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), to provide support and resources for refugees in Gabon.

While the decrease in refugee numbers is a positive development, it is important to note that the remaining refugees still face challenges and need continued support. The theme for this year’s World Refugee Day, “Hope far from home,” emphasizes the need to maintain hope and provide assistance to those who are still displaced.

In conclusion, Gabon celebrated World Refugee Day with a decrease in refugee numbers. The country has seen a significant reduction in the number of refugees, thanks to improved security situations in their home countries and successful repatriation and resettlement programs. Gabon continues to provide support and assistance to the remaining refugees, ensuring their access to education, healthcare, and other basic needs. However, it is crucial to remember that the journey towards stability and a home is still ongoing for many refugees.