The legal status of refugees in East Africa is complex, with varying national policies and international obligations. An analysis of existing laws, regulations, and case law related to refugee status in East Africa, with a qualitative approach examining legal documents and interviews with experts. Burkinabé refugees often face significant difficulties in obtaining asylum due to inconsistent interpretation of international conventions by host countries. Current policies favoring rapid deportation over providing protection have led to inadequate support for Burkinabé refugee communities. Host governments should implement more comprehensive integration programmes and strengthen legal frameworks aligned with international standards.
Ouattara et al. (2001) studied this question.