São Tomé and Príncipe Commits to Ending Statelessness
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has recognized São Tomé and Príncipe’s commitment to eradicating statelessness by joining two key international conventions. This critical move enhances the nation’s contribution to global efforts addressing this significant issue.
Accession to Key Conventions
On January 15th, São Tomé and Príncipe officially became the 98th State Party to the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons and the 80th State Party to the 1961 Convention on the Reduction of Statelessness. These accessions underscore the country’s dedication to resolving the challenges faced by stateless people and safeguarding their rights and dignity.
UNHCR Regional Director for West and Central Africa, Abdouraouf Gnon Konde, lauded this development as a testament to São Tomé and Príncipe’s commitment to addressing and preventing statelessness.
A Step Towards Global Change
This milestone aligns with the UNHCR’s #IBelong campaign, a global initiative aimed at ending statelessness. It also marks São Tomé and Príncipe’s transition to the Global Alliance to End Statelessness, a significant leap in the worldwide fight against this issue.
Statelessness restricts individuals’ access to fundamental human rights, including education, healthcare, employment, and marriage. Over 4.4 million people in 95 countries are currently stateless or have an undetermined nationality, and the actual global figure is believed to be much higher.
Challenges and Opportunities in São Tomé and Príncipe
While specific data on statelessness in São Tomé and Príncipe is not yet available, the country’s accession to the conventions lays a strong foundation for identifying and addressing the causes and challenges faced by stateless people.
UNHCR Representative for São Tomé and Príncipe, Olivier Guillaume Beer, emphasized the nation’s commitment to establishing a legal framework that guarantees everyone’s right to nationality, following their pledge at the 2023 Global Refugee Forum.
UNHCR’s Continued Support
The UNHCR remains committed to assisting São Tomé and Príncipe in implementing measures to prevent and reduce statelessness. This collaboration aims to build a more inclusive society and positively impact the lives of stateless individuals in the region.