UNHCR Praises Cameroon’s Comprehensive Efforts for Refugee Inclusion

The UNHCR commends Cameroon for establishing a national framework for identity documents aimed at refugees, improving access to essential services and stability for over 1.4 million displaced individuals. Initiatives like biometric ID cards have significantly benefited refugees in seeking services and opportunities, although continued international support is critical for success.

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has lauded the Government of Cameroon for its innovative national framework aimed at providing identity documents, including biometric identity cards to refugees. Approximately 1.4 million forcibly displaced individuals reside in Cameroon, comprising nearly one million internally displaced persons and 430,000 refugees. These documents serve as essential identification, enabling access to healthcare, education, and employment, thereby facilitating integration and stability for displaced individuals.

In February 2025, Cameroon unveiled a national framework designed to issue identification documents, such as residence permits and national disability cards. Working in partnership with UNHCR, the Government is devoted to ensuring that all refugees are acknowledged and included within the society. Yvette Muhimpundu, UNHCR Representative in Cameroon, emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating that the identity card serves as a “lifesaving tool” allowing refugees to access necessary services and achieve self-reliance.

The government has also implemented various initiatives aimed at promoting refugee inclusion, including a biometric identification program that has successfully provided legal identification to 25,000 refugees. This advancement is expected to enhance access to vital services and economic opportunities, ultimately contributing to stability for forcibly displaced populations.

For many refugees, such as 36-year-old Shelley Teckombi, who lacked official documentation for seven years, the biometric ID card is crucial for attaining stability and opportunities. Having fled violence in the Central African Republic, Shelley can now pursue education, work, and access healthcare without the fear of arrest.

Although Cameroon has achieved remarkable progress in enhancing the inclusion of displaced populations, the success of these efforts could be jeopardized without continued international assistance. Sustained funding is imperative to close financial gaps and to maintain these essential initiatives. Without adequate resources, refugees and internally displaced persons will face challenges in accessing crucial services necessary for their integration and self-sufficiency.

Given the unprecedented levels of global displacement, a coordinated response is increasingly important. UNHCR urges host governments and the international community to enhance their support and commitment to facilitate lasting solutions for forcibly displaced persons, ensuring assistance for those most impacted.

In summary, the UNHCR has praised Cameroon for its proactive measures in providing identity documentation for refugees, significantly aiding their integration into society. With over 1.4 million displaced individuals in the country, the government’s initiatives are crucial for enhancing access to essential services. However, the sustainability of these efforts hinges on ongoing international support and funding, as an increased coordinated response is necessary to address the challenges faced by forcibly displaced populations.

Original Source: www.unhcr.org