The Coalition for the Defence of Human Rights Living in Refugee Camps has documented serious concerns regarding the integrity of refugee selection processes at the Nduta Refugee Camp, where recent lists published by Tanzanian authorities and agents of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees have raised widespread alarm among Burundian refugees.
According to testimonies collected from refugees, the published lists intended to identify individuals eligible for specific assistance or repatriation processes are marked by significant irregularities. Many refugees with well-founded protection concerns have reportedly been excluded without clear justification.
At the same time, individuals allegedly linked to the Sungusungu militia groups have appeared on these lists, despite not meeting the criteria for protection or humanitarian prioritization. This has generated confusion and deep mistrust among the refugee population.
Refugees have also raised serious allegations of corruption influencing the selection process. Claims suggest that inclusion on the lists may depend on informal payments or personal connections, rather than objective vulnerability assessments or protection needs.
These practices undermine the credibility of humanitarian operations within the camp and risk distorting the fundamental principles of fairness, neutrality, and impartiality that should guide refugee protection mechanisms.
The exclusion of vulnerable individuals from official lists has direct and severe consequences, including denial of assistance, increased exposure to hardship, and heightened pressure to accept return under unfavorable conditions.
Furthermore, such irregularities contribute to growing tensions within the refugee community, as perceptions of injustice and discrimination erode social cohesion and trust in both national authorities and international organizations.
In response, CDH VICAR calls for an independent and transparent review of the selection process, accountability for any acts of corruption, and the immediate correction of all irregularities. The organization also urges all stakeholders to uphold international standards and ensure that refugee protection remains based on genuine need and respect for human rights.
