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prolong the conflict that caused them to flee their state in the first place, further burdening the host country. Moreover, if a country accepts refugees, it can be interpreted that they are making a political statement on one side of a conflict or another. This statement can cause conflict with the country from which these refugees originate, creating an even larger problem for the host country. Lastly, the impact of a refugee population on the environment must be examined, as it too has bearing on the welfare of the host country. Because of the climate in Africa, there is already a strain on arable land for farming, potable water and wood. A large refugee population increases this strain and depletes resources at a rapid rate. Additionally, land must be cleared, and temporary roads and arrangements must be made so that refugee camps are more accessible to aid workers. While it is possible for refugees to enhance the economic, political and environmental conditions of the host country, this has not happened throughout Africa, or in the rest of the world. It is in the hands of this committee to discuss and create durable solutions and remedies for the past, current and future situations of struggling host countries within the African continent.
Background A refugee, as defined by the Organization of African Unity Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa, is: every person, who, owing to external aggression, occupation, foreign domination or events seriously disturbing public order in either part of the whole of his country of origin or nationality, is compelled to leave his place of habitual residence in order to seek refuge in another place outside his country of origin or nationality.1
Since the colonization of Africa, and the continent’s consequent struggle for independence, violent conflicts have caused refugees to flee their countries in search of safety. Because Africa’s organization into states was arbitrary and poorly planned, the borders often divided ethnic similarities and combined people of different cultures, 1
African Union, “Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa,” African Union, www.africa-union.org/Official_documents/Treaties_%20Conventions_%20Protocols/Refugee_Convention.pdf (accessed October 9, 2006).