South African History Online

Message from President Nelson Mandela on Africa refugee day

20 June 1997

It is a great honour to add the voice of South Africa to the call for
solidarity in addressing one of Africa's most urgent problems. When African
Heads of States and Governments decided, in 1969, to address Africa's unique
refugee problems in accordance with the Charter of the Organisation of African
Unity (OAU), they laid the foundation for the 1974 Convention that has become a
landmark in the protection of refugees in Africa.

Tribute must also be paid to international bodies, NGOs and individuals whose
tireless efforts to solve the refugee problem have made an indelible mark on our
continent's history.

Yet, our continent today has the largest refugee problem, in the world.
Sadly, armed conflict and violation of human rights continue to be the
fundamental causes. In turn large-scale population displacements pose a threat
to regional and continental peace and security. Unresolved refugee problems
become a source of instability, violence and further population displacements.

Dealing with these problems is inextricably linked to achieving peace,
upholding the rule of law and entrenching a human rights culture and democracy.
Solutions to the refugee problem therefore require us to realise the principles
of the African Charter emphasizing political and civil rights and improved
socio-economic conditions.

The theme of Africa Refugee Day this year, "Together in Search for Solutions:
is a call to all of us on the African continent to unite in the face of this
pressing global problem. Africa's need for integrated approach is shared
worldwide. No country can single- handedly accomplish these goals.

The ending of apartheid and destabilisation, and the entrenchment of
democracy have helped to reduce the number of Southern Africa refugees. The
memorandum of Understanding between the United Nations High Commission for
Refugees and SADC goes a long way to addressing the consequences of apartheid's
destabilisation policies.

As long as armed conflict persists, Africa will need to formulate progressive
and humanitarian refugee policies to deal with the crisis. To this end South
Africa is committed to regional as well as inter-regional cooperation within the
framework of the Organisation of African Unity.

Nelson Mandela President
Republic of South Africa
20 June 1997