The UNHCR praises Cameroon’s inclusive initiatives to provide identity documents to refugees, enhancing their access to services and promoting stability. However, continuous global support is essential to maintain progress in refugee integration and self-reliance.
The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) commends the Government of Cameroon for creating a national framework to provide identity documents, including biometric identity cards, to refugees. These measures are crucial, as Cameroon currently hosts over 1.4 million displaced individuals, encompassing nearly 1 million internally displaced persons and 430,000 refugees. Identity documents not only serve as proof of identity but also grant access to vital services such as healthcare, education, and employment, promoting integration and stability for these individuals.
In February 2025, Cameroon launched a national initiative to issue identification documents, which include residence permits and national disability cards. In partnership with UNHCR, the Government aims to ensure that all refugees are recognized and integrated into society. “We are proud of the results of our collaboration with the Government of Cameroon,” stated Yvette Muhimpundu, UNHCR Representative. The issuance of identity cards is a pivotal step toward upholding the Global Compact on Refugees’ principles by granting essential access to basic services needed for self-reliance.
Over the years, Cameroon has implemented several initiatives to enhance the inclusion of refugees. A biometric identification program has legally identified 25,000 refugees, which significantly improves their access to essential services and economic opportunities. For individuals like Shelley Teckombi, a 36-year-old refugee who lacked official documentation for seven years, receiving a biometric ID card has transformed her ability to secure education, employment, and healthcare, allowing her to travel with peace of mind.
Despite the notable advancements, the effectiveness of refugee inclusion remains precarious without ongoing international support. Sustained funding is crucial to close financial gaps and ensure these initiatives’ success. Inadequate resources could limit refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) from receiving the necessary services for their integration and self-sufficiency.
With global displacement reaching unprecedented levels, a cohesive and concerted response is essential. UNHCR’s efforts focused on achieving lasting solutions for forcibly displaced individuals necessitate stronger commitments from host governments and increased international collaboration to support the most affected populations.
In summary, the UNHCR recognizes Cameroon’s proactive measures to provide identity documentation for refugees and displaced individuals, which facilitate their access to essential services and foster stability. Continued international support and funding are critical to the success of these initiatives, ensuring that refugees and IDPs can achieve self-reliance and contribute to their communities. The global community must coordinate efforts to address the growing challenges of displacement.
Original Source: www.unhcr.org
