Exploring the Multiple Paradoxes and Challenges of Uganda’s Refugee Law, Policies and Practice

Abstract

Uganda has garnered considerable international praise for its “open door” policies on refugees. This is particularly the case against the backdrop of a global context of growing physical and metaphorical walls being constructed against the phenomenon of migration, whether forced or voluntary. Nevertheless, such praise conceals a much more complex context of opportunistic strategizing, donor politics and regional geopolitical balancing. In sum, what is lauded as “progressive” is much more problematic and nuanced, especially with respect to the issue of local integration (particularly for long-term refugees), voluntary repatriation and the management and funding of refugee support.