The UN Refugee Agency praises Cameroon for its inclusive initiatives towards displaced populations, including a national framework for identity documents that grants refugees access to essential services. Despite notable advancements, sustained global support and funding are necessary to ensure the success and stability of these humanitarian efforts in the face of record levels of global displacement.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) commends the Government of Cameroon for its national framework aimed at providing identity documents, including biometric identity cards, for refugees. With over 1.4 million forcibly displaced individuals in Cameroon, including approximately 1 million internally displaced persons and 430,000 refugees, these documents are crucial for accessing essential services such as healthcare, education, and employment, thereby promoting their integration into society.
In February 2025, Cameroon implemented a framework that includes residence permits and national disability cards, with support from UNHCR. This initiative aims to ensure that all refugees are acknowledged and included in societal frameworks. Yvette Muhimpundu, UNHCR’s Representative in Cameroon, emphasized the importance of identity documents as a means for refugees to access basic services, which contributes to their self-reliance.
The Cameroonian government has introduced several initiatives to improve refugee inclusion, notably a biometric identification program that has successfully issued legal identifications to 25,000 refugees. This program enhances access to essential services and provides economic opportunities, positioning refugees toward a more stable future.
Individuals like Shelley Teckombi, who fled violence in the Central African Republic and lived seven years without proper documentation, have found hope through the biometric ID card. This development enables her to pursue education, healthcare, and employment opportunities freely and safely, reflecting the tangible benefits of such initiatives.
Despite the progress achieved, the success of these inclusion efforts depends heavily on sustained international support. Adequate funding remains critically important to meet the needs of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive vital services necessary for integration and self-sufficiency.
Amid escalating global displacement, a coordinated international response is imperative. Achieving lasting solutions for forcibly displaced persons requires an ongoing commitment from host governments and enhanced global support to assist the affected individuals significantly.
In conclusion, UNHCR recognizes the commendable steps taken by Cameroon to enhance the inclusion of refugees through the provision of vital identity documents. While significant strides have been made, ongoing international support and funding are essential to sustain these initiatives. The effective integration of forcibly displaced populations will depend on continued collaboration and resource allocation to facilitate their access to essential services and improve their overall stability and self-reliance.
Original Source: www.unhcr.org
