The Secretary-General of the Organisation of African Trade Union Unity (OATUU), Brother Arezki Mezhoud, held a meeting with a Representative of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr. Hervé Kuate to discuss potential areas of collaboration in support of refugees across the African continent.
During the meeting, Mr. Kuate underscored the importance of strengthening the partnership between the UNHCR and the African Union, and highlighted the need for the ratification and implementation of key international and regional conventions, particularly those relating to the protection of human rights.He also shared UNHCR’s perspective on approaching refugee support not only from an individual standpoint but also through a community-based approach. By reinforcing existing social systems—such as healthcare, education, and employment—refugees can be integrated more effectively while also enhancing services for host communities. Mr. Kuate further addressed the challenges of relying primarily on external aid, noting the importance of African-led strategies to address refugee issues sustainably.
Mr. Mezhoud also presented OATUU’s mandate and how it aligns with the empowerment of refugees. He highlighted the potential of trade unions to mobilise support, humanise the status of refugees, and create pathways for socio-economic integration. He stressed the value of vocational training and livelihood opportunities, particularly given that many refugees enter the informal sector as a means of survival. He also cautioned that neglect and exclusion can leave refugees vulnerable to exploitation, and reiterated the importance of empowering them with dignified work opportunities.
Mr. Kuate welcomed these perspectives and shared that the UNHCR is actively exploring ways to encourage African nations to view refugees not only as a population in need of protection, but also as a source of labour potential and mutual benefit when properly integrated into local economies. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further dialogue and cooperation between OATUU and UNHCR, with the goal of enhancing refugee protection and integration in Africa while promoting solidarity, human rights, and decent work for all.
