The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Mr Ruud Lubbers has called on the Minister for the Interior, Mr Hackman Owusu-Agyeman to discuss the refugee situation in the country.
Mr Lubbers is on a two-day official visit at the head of a six-member delegation. Mr Owusu-Agyeman said although Ghana has been trying its best to make life meaningful for refugees despite its own current economic situation, the increasing demands of the refugees can no more be met. The Foreign Minister however said that these refugees often refuse to return home after situations have stabilised in their countries. The Minister said Ghana is currently hosting about 60,000 refugees, including Ivorians and Liberians.
Mr Owusu-Agyeman urged the UN to ensure that all refugees are treated equally, no matter their origin, saying most often refugees from other continents are given better treatment than those in Africa. The Minister said Ghana, with its current position as chair of ECOWAS would ensure that democracy and good governance strives in West Africa to prevent conflicts. He said this is why Ghana is ensuring that her democratic dispensation is not disturbed.
Mr Lubbers said the UN has been facing enormous challenges with refugee situations worldwide. He expressed the UN's appreciation to Ghana for its effort of single-handedly making things better for refugees in the Sub-Region, even after the withdrawal of UN aid and other assistance. Mr Lubbers said it is a shame that a lot of attention has been focused on Iraqi refugees and others from western countries over the years.
