Human Rights and the Refugee Crisis

Abstract

Purpose: This study sought to explore human rights and the refugee crisis.

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to human rights and the refugee crisis. Preliminary empirical review revealed that significant gaps remained in the protection of refugee rights despite existing international frameworks and policies. It found that refugees frequently faced inadequate living conditions, limited access to essential services, and insufficient integration opportunities. The research also highlighted the growing impact of environmental factors, such as climate change, on displacement, revealing that current policies often failed to address these emerging challenges effectively. The study emphasized the need for a more integrated approach that combines immediate humanitarian relief with long-term strategies to enhance both protection and integration for refugees.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Human Rights Theory, Realist Theory in International Relations and the Constructivist Theory in International Relations may be used to anchor future studies on the refugee crisis. The study recommended several key actions to improve the response to the refugee crisis. It suggested enhancing international collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders to ensure more effective aid delivery. It also emphasized the need to incorporate environmental considerations into refugee policies and strengthen legal frameworks to better protect refugee rights. Additionally, the study advocated for improved access to essential services, community-based integration approaches, support for advocacy and capacity building, and long-term planning to ensure sustainable and effective responses to the refugee crisis.