Non-state Actors and the Management of Refugee-host State Conflict- a Critical Examination of the Kenyan Experience

Abstract

The refugee- host state conflict is one among many 21st century challenges that Governments and State have to grapple with. Finding the balance between a country’s national interests and the International community’s statutory obligations is a thin line nation states need to draw. Thus, this study sought to understand contribution made by non-state actors in resolving conflicts between refugees and host countries. The objectives of the study are: To understand the nature and extent of refugee and host country’s conflict in Africa. Establish a place for non-state actors to resolve conflicts between refugees and host countries in Africa. Critical examination of the performance of non-state actors in the management of refugees and host community conflicts in Kenya; Proffer recommendations on the management of refugees in the direction of avoiding conflictual settings in Kenya and Africa. Previous researches indicate how refugees have been managed in camps and integrated within communities. Documentation on state obligations to refugees are well known, but the role of non-state actors in managing conflicts between refugees and host countries is poorly documented. This study is based on the theory of conflict transformation. This study uses mixed study design with case study, qualitative and quantitative study designs. The study was carried out in Dadaab camp of Garissa County with an estimated 400,000 refugees and Kakuma in Turkana County with a capacity of 125,000 persons. There are 100 non-state actors working in the two camps earmarked for the study. Calculation using the Slovin’s equation yielded a sample size of 80 respondents. This study also used purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The study used both secondary and primary data to properly conduct a comprehensive study. Primary data were obtained from the interview schedule, and secondary data were collected from academic papers related to the planned research. Before conducting the data collection process itself, the validity and reliability of the interview schedule was confirmed. Data processing and analysis was performed according to the purpose of the study using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS V 21.0). Data presentation is presented using tables and frequency distributions, prose and verbatism, giving a clear overview of the findings is obtained. This study found that tensions and conflicts between locals and refugee communities have existed for many years and are exacerbated by a sense of environmental stress, scarce resources and economically blessed refugees (they receive support not available in the local community).The study also concludes that non-state actors are capable of managing refugee crises, in particular through various tools such as preventative diplomacy, devising early warning mechanisms and changing roles by promoting human dignity. It is worth noting that the non-state actors have forgotten the dignity of the host and promoted that of the refugees. This alone will cause major disputes between the parties. Peace dialogues and forums were created by non-state actors because of the financial benefits that accrue from the same. In fact, dialogue is a mechanism for managing conflicts. But without the role of transforming sustainable development, all other conflict mechanisms lead to a zero-sum game. Based on the findings, the study made the following recommendations: Before the NSA can begin dispute resolution activities, some conditions must be met; The NSA knows national and regional agencies involved in dispute resolution efforts; The NSA has local partners; NSA staff are familiar with dispute mediation skills; NSA field staff fully understand the personal risks it takes.