Relationship between former Liberian refugees and the host community in Buduburam after the end of humanitarian assistance

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand the relationship between former Liberian Refugees in Buduburam camp and the host community during and after humanitarian aid by exploring their lived experiences, challenges and coping strategies. The study adopted a qualitative research approach through a case study design. A total of 12 refugees were purposively selected in the study. Data was collected through interviews and observation and the analysis of the data was done through thematic analysis. The findings reveal that the former Liberian refugees’ relationship with the host community during the aid era was cordial but turned sour after the assistance to the refugees ceased. The study discovered that the former Liberian refugees are faced with challenges ranging from financial difficulties, discrimination, to malnutrition and denial of social services. The former Liberian refugees strive to survive by doing menial jobs, receiving support from social networks and by having faith and relying on God. The former Liberian refugees have hope of things taking a positive turn someday. The findings show that in order to have a cordial relationship between the former Liberian refugees and the host community there should be cooperation to attain common goals and the introduction of livelihood support programs. It is recommended that government should take immediate action to address the issues surrounding the former Liberian refugees' identity documents, employment opportunities, and housing settlement.