STATELESSNESS

STATELESSNESS IN WEST AFRICA

Statelessness is a significant issue in West Africa, and it presents numerous challenges that require concerted efforts from governments, international organizations, and civil society. Understanding these challenges and recommending strategies is essential. Additionally, civil society organizations (CSOs) play a crucial role in advocacy, awareness, and supporting affected individuals. Here are the main challenges, strategies, and the role of CSOs in addressing statelessness in West Africa

CHALLENGES

  1. LACK OF BIRTH REGISTRATION
  2. DISCRIMINATORY NATIONALITY LAWS
  3. CROSS-BORDER MIGRATION
  4. ETHNIC AND RELIGIOUS TENSIONS
  5. INADEQUATE LEGAL FRAMEWORKS
  6. CONFLICT AND DISPLACEMENT
  7. GENDER DISCRIMINATION

WACSOF PROPOSED STRATEGIES

  1. LEGAL REFORMS
  2. BIRTH REGISTRATION CAMPAIGNS
  3. CAPACITY BUILDING
  4. ADVOCACY FOR POLICY CHANGES
  5. CROSS-BORDER COOPERATION
  6. ADDRESSING ETHNIC AND RELIGIOUS TENSIONS
  7. PROTECTION FOR STATELESS PERSONS
  8. AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS

ROLE OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS (CSOS)

  1. ADVOCACY AND AWARENESS
  2. LEGAL ASSISTANCE
  3. CAPACITY BUILDING
  4. DATA COLLECTION AND RESEARCH
  5. COLLABORATION WITH GOVERNMENTS
  6. MONITORING AND REPORTING
  7. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
  8. PARTNERSHIPS

IN THE NEWS