5.1.1.2 Case Study Two : Brazil Project Description :
An acknowledged refugee presence has been long-standing in many Brazilian cities . Due to high intakes of refugees annually , a 1997 bill was passed to highlight the protection and support of refugees under the law . Refugee integration has been central to public policy where refugees are generally protected with the same legal status as locals when possible , or at the minimum receive protection under parallel policies . Beyond the federal government , local governments have concentrated efforts to act more directly in ensuring social rights and encourage initiatives for integration . In São Paulo , a municipal committee has been set up to discuss public policies and ensure the inclusion of refugees under the law . This recently led to an official government fund to improve provide shelter and protection . The Reference and Reception Centre for Immigrants provides an access point to municipal services , hosting events and welcoming some 80 visitors a day . In 2014 , the Terra Nova shelter and the Immigrant Centre for Integration and Citizenship were established to welcome the large influx of incomers . The CIC is well connected and easily accessible , providing visitors with guidance and information access about laws and state sponsored programmes . The shelter provides dwelling space for at least 50 individuals that require assistance in order to ensure their rehabilitation into society by developing self-sufficiency and autonomy strategies . Dwellers are also provided with legal assistance and supports in the attainment of documents , employment opportunities , language classes and other information on public services . Lessons Learned :
( 1 ) Reception and information centres , as shown in the examples shared by the municipality and state of São Paulo , enable host governments to welcome refugees and asylum-seekers , providing a central place where they can seek material and other support .
( 2 ) Such centres should be included in local integration plans so as to facilitate the implementation of public policies for the protection of refugees . Most importantly , a national integration policy and plan that is coordinated down to the state and municipal level is essential .
5.1.1.3 Case Study Three : Kenya Project Description :
Historically , and especially throughout the twentieth century , Kenya has been known as a major refugee hosting state with generous refugee policies guaranteeing integration and access to services for incomers . Recent turmoil in surrounding nations , beginning from the 1990s , have resulted in an overwhelming influx of refugees with which the state was unable to cope . This resulted in a changed approach to refugee integration and new policies that restrict the residence of refugees to camps and other confined communities . Although those living in camps are provided with various services by the UNHCR , such as education and heath support , it is difficult in such an environment to make financial advancement and dwellers are left without a prospect of self-sufficiency . Many therefore escape their camps to for illegal residence in urban communities , which offer greater chances for personal and economic growth . This type of activity is specifically focused in Nairobi , where the Eastleigh neighbourhood has witnessed unprecedented development by an influx of majority Somali refugees ( amongst other nationalities ). Today it is estimated that around 200,000 Somali immigrants and refugees reside in Eastleigh .
The main street of the Eastleigh neighbourhood , two kilometers east of the city centre , is called ‘ 1st Avenue ’. The area is dominated by the presence Somali refugees , standing as the centre of the capital , and simultaneously at the
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