Repatriation of Rwandan refugees from eastern Congo

SOURCE www.npr.org
Hundreds of Rwandan refugees who fled to eastern Congo after the 1994 genocide are being repatriated back to Rwanda, with the goal of repatriating 2,000 people. The refugees were escorted by the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees and Save the Children, and are receiving emergency assistance and support for reintegration.

Key Points

  • Tripartite agreement between Rwanda, Congo, and UNHCR for repatriation
  • Goal of repatriating 2,000 refugees
  • Support from U.N. agencies and local authorities for the repatriation process

Pros

  • Bringing Rwandan refugees back to their homeland
  • Providing support for reintegration and development

Cons

  • Escalation of conflict in the region due to Rwanda-backed rebels
  • Ongoing humanitarian crisis in mineral-rich eastern Congo