Application of the Cessation Clauses to the Refugee Problem in Rwanda: opportunities and challenges

Abstract

The appearance of literature highly criticizing the application of the “Ceased Circumstances” Cessation Clauses to the very protracted case of Rwandan refugees has sparked significant interest in this research endeavour. The study illuminates the multifaceted challenges surrounding the acceptance and execution of the cessation clauses, shedding light on the adversities faced by non-compliant Rwandan refugees within host nations, as well as the intricacies of repatriation and reintegration efforts in Rwanda. A noteworthy finding was that nearly all respondents expressed no remorse regarding their repatriation, with the majority articulating substantial advantages resulting from their decision to return. Consequently, the initial vehement criticism directed at the application of cessation clauses for Rwandan refugees appears, in hindsight, to have been largely unfounded. This study suggests that protracted refugee situations may benefit from a discerning and timely implementation of cessation clauses, with a crucial prerequisite being the political determination of the country of origin.