Refugee Status / Asylum Seeker Procedures

Namibia's framework for protecting displaced persons is rooted in the 1951 UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, its 1967 Protocol, and the 1969 OAU Convention. These international obligations were incorporated into domestic law through the Refugees (Recognition and Control) Act of 1999. This legislation fills the critical gap of providing a legal, structured process for individuals fleeing persecution, war, or violence to seek safety and protection within Namibian borders, ensuring that the state adheres to the principle of non-refoulement while managing the humanitarian needs of those in distress.

This process is for individuals who have a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. The ideal applicant is someone who has arrived at a port of entry or is already physically present in Namibia and is seeking international protection. It is distinctive because it involves a specific, mandatory procedure where applicants typically report to the Osire Refugee Settlement for registration and status determination. While it grants legal rights to stay and access services, it is uniquely characterized by a policy that often requires residence within designated settlements.