Horn of Africa People`s Aid (HAPA) is non-profit voluntary organisation established in 2006 in Dublin by a group of individuals representing HOA communities in the Republic of Ireland and has operations serving both locally and internationally. HAPA was registered in 2009 as a company limited by guarantee, and currently operates out of offices located in Dublin’s city centre. HAPA commits itself to assisting and supporting communities in need regardless of their race, religion, colour, gender or social background.
Locally, HAPA organises tutoring clubs, supports academic endeavours, operates a drop-in centre for refugees and hosts cross-cultural events such as sport and recreation for refugee communities and local Irish people together. Our work abroad focuses on raising financial resources and support for developing education and health related issues in HOA countries.
News from the United Nations
News from the United Nations
The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) issued strong new guidelines as of 12 May, 2010 regarding Somali refugees. These new guidelines recommend that countries provide shelter to those fleeing from Somalia, even if they do not meet formal refugee criteria. This new development highlights the urgent needs of the Somali people and our responsibility as host countries to help.
In a statement, UNHCR’s chief spokesperson, Melissa Fleming said “In view of the nature of the conflict and the dramatic humanitarian situation, UNHCR does not believe that Somali refugees can find an internal relocation alternative in central or southern Somalia. It is UNHCR's view that asylum seekers from central and southern Somalia are in need of international protection.
Those who do not meet the criteria for refugee status under the 1951 Convention or the OAU Convention should benefit from complementary forms of international protection, as applicable in situations of generalized violence or armed conflict"
How can we best respond in Ireland? Firstly, there needs to be a reassessment of those existing refugee applicants and former applicants who are appealing rejected applications. Please help us to bring this very important new development to the attention of the Irish government, as well as solicitors and others involved in process and care of refugee cases.
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