Abstract
AbstractOn the 70th anniversary of the UN Refugee Convention, this article examines the concept of solidarity and explains its relevance today, through the lens of the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR). While stressing the potential as well as the challenges for thorough implementation of the solidarity mechanisms established by the GCR, the article argues that regional organizations may contribute to meeting the GCR objectives. This is particularly urgent for regions that are most affected by migratory flows. In proposing new ways of approaching the concept of solidarity, the article suggests that the African Union strengthen mechanisms other than the physical sharing of refugees, including pooling resources to support states experiencing large influxes of refugees. In addition to a system of financial support for refugee protection, the article also recommends that the European Union ensures safe channels for arrivals and a more robust resettlement programme, to help realize the GCR objectives.
Highlights
THE QUEST FOR SOLIDARITY IN REFUGEE PROTECTIONWith the increasing number of refugees globally,[1] international solidarity has become all the more urgent to ensure an adequate response to the challenges of refugee protection.[2]
To pursue this twofold aim, the article first reflects on the reconceptualization of solidarity, especially in its constitutive element of responsibilitysharing, from the start of the international refugee regime to the model established by the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR)
In West Africa, Liberia and Sierra Leone produced a considerable number of refugees as a result of a brutal civil war in 1989–2002.73 The refugee situation in Liberia and Sierra Leone become a litmus test for the principle of international solidarity, responsibility-sharing and African humanism.[74]
Summary
With the increasing number of refugees globally,[1] international solidarity has become all the more urgent to ensure an adequate response to the challenges of refugee protection.[2]. The GCR is a promising political project, but its legal commitments remain “thin”.14 Departing from such an “illusory”[15] quest for universal solidarity, this article argues that the paradigm of responsibility-sharing in the CGR could result in significant binding obligations, if effectively integrated within regional refugee regimes. The research aims to illustrate how the paradigm of cooperation and responsibility-sharing set out in the GCR can be integrated within these regional systems To pursue this twofold aim, the article first reflects on the reconceptualization of solidarity, especially in its constitutive element of responsibilitysharing, from the start of the international refugee regime to the model established by the GCR. 28 G Martin “International solidarity and co-operation in assistance to African refugees: Burden-sharing or burden-shifting” (1995) 7 International Journal of Refugee Law 250 at 253
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
