Refugee Identity Cards are now being issued by the National Identification Authority (NIA) to refugees living in the country.
Beneficiaries will be able to access some social services in the country as a result of this.
Padi Tetteh, the acting Executive Secretary of the Ghana Refugee Board, has therefore praised the Authority.
According to Mr. Tetteh, the move is a step in the right direction and in conformity with international standards.
“Because we are signatories to the UN Refugee Convention and are controlled by the Ghana Refugee Law, we are required to guarantee that refugees have access to social services, which is critical in order for them to earn a living.”
He further stated that this activity will benefit approximately 7,000 refugees.
However, Mr Padi emphasised that this certificate does not confer refugees nationality.
“It is crucial to remember that the card does not confer nationality or the ability to vote.”
The only difference is that the card grants them access to social services so that they can live in safety and dignity.”
The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol set forth refugees’ rights as well as states’ legal obligations to protect them, including the right to social assistance.