10Oct By Yvonne ShisiaOctober 21, 20260Advocacy and Capacity Development Refugee protection is not merely a humanitarian concern; it is a matter of human rights, legal obligation and shared responsibility. This formed the basis of discussions during the Nairobi City County Stakeholders Forum with Bunge la Wananchi, held on 16th October 2026 at Charter Hall, where Refugee Legal Networks (RLN) engaged community members and other stakeholders on Refugee Rights, Responsibilities and their place within host communities. The engagement explored the legal protections afforded to refugees under the Constitution of Kenya, the Refugees Act, 2021, and international refugee protection instruments. Key issues included the right to dignity, equality and non-discrimination, access to education and healthcare, protection against refoulement, access to justice and the right to engage in lawful economic activities. Particular emphasis was placed on the principle that refugee status does not extinguish an individual’s fundamental human rights, nor should it be a basis for discrimination or exclusion. Importantly, the discussion recognized that refugee protection comes with responsibilities. Refugees are expected to respect and comply with the laws of Kenya, maintain the required documentation, respect the rights of others and contribute positively to the communities in which they live. The forum also provided an opportunity to address concerns raised by community members, including competition for business opportunities, employment, access to public services and security. It highlighted the importance of distinguishing legitimate economic concerns from discrimination based on nationality or refugee status, while promoting fair competition, lawful business practices and accountability. Ultimately, protecting refugee rights and safeguarding the interests of host communities should not be competing objectives. Both require informed public participation, effective governance and meaningful collaboration between government institutions, civil society, refugee-led organizations and local communities. Refugee Legal Networks remains committed to advancing access to justice, promoting awareness of refugee rights and responsibilities, and fostering inclusive communities founded on dignity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. Author Yvonne Shisia View all posts 0 Reviews ( 0 out of 0 ) Write a Review Submit Review