The Role Of Refugees On The Development Interests Of The Host States: Case Study Of Kenya

Abstract

The large scale arrivals of refugees in Kenya from neighbouring countries have presented a developmental debate which ceases to end. Majority of refugees seeking asylum in Kenya have either escaped an armed conflict, a civil war, an ethnic or religious persecutions or political oppression among other life threatening situations. Kenya has been hosting refugees for a protracted period of time. Hosting of Refugees present a myriad of varied socio-economic and political impacts. Though sometimes perceived as economic and security burden to the host country, they can as well play a significant role in the development and national security of the host country. This study, therefore, seeks to explore the role of refugees on the development interest of the host states focusing on how refugees in various African states have affected the interests of host states, the role, and impact of refugees on Kenya’s national development and the challenges facing refugees in their efforts to contribute to Kenya’s economic interest. In this study, the refugee contribution to development interests and national security of the host countries was critically analysed from the perspective of how refugees in various African states have affected the host countries. Neo-liberal theoretical paradigm conceptualized this study. The research adopted a descriptive survey design, which is informed the type of data collection method adopted. Consequently, the study adopted both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods which typically involved; document reviews and publications, informant interviews, as well as key questionnaires for purposes of data collection. The collected data were checked for completeness then analysed using computer software SPSS version 22 and computer excel for ease of interpretation and understanding. The Data is presented on tables, graphs and figures. Fundamentally, this study establishes a mutual corelationship between refugee hosting states and refuges. While they (refugees) are perceived as a burden, they constitute a valuable economic population of their host state. This research study critiques the current humanitarian response-oriented policies initiated and recommends promotion of economic development-oriented actions. Further, this study arouses an academic debate anchored on non-refoulement principle in efforts to protect refugees.