EU thanks Kenya for refugee hosting, and pledges to help improve security

Kakuma, Kenya: On the occasion of World Refugee Day at an event in Kakuma, conveying a message on behalf of the European Union, British High Commissioner, Dr Christian Turner, thanked the Government of Kenya for a long history of hosting refugees and providing protection to those fleeing persecution, conflict and other forms of insecurity.

Dr. Turner said: “We share and support the Government of Kenya’s desire for a sustainable solution to the refugee issue, and as such welcomed the signature of the Tripartite Agreement between Kenya, Somalia and UNHCR last year.

 “It is important that this process be reinvigorated and begin to develop a comprehensive road map which is acceptable to all.”

The Tripartite Agreement establishes a legal framework and other support for Somali refugees in Kenya to return to their homeland under certain specified conditions. It defines the roles and responsibilities of the three parties in accordance with international standards.

 The High Commissioner said he shared the Government’s security concerns.

Referring to the events of Mpeketoni, he said that members of the European Union have been working with the Government to improve security. He urged security forces to conduct ongoing security operations professionally and ensure that human rights are respected. He also called urgently for the UNHCR to be given the access required to verify the status of refugees, asylum seekers and others being held in detention.