IMPACT OF PLAN INTERNATIONAL RWANDA IN PROMOTING HUMAN RIGHTS. CASE STUDY OF MAHAMA REFUGEE CAMP FROM 2015-2024 BY Odile NIYOMUGABA

Abstract

This dissertation explores the impact of interventions of Plan International Rwanda in promoting human rights within Mahama Refugee Camp from 2015 to 2017. The study aims to evaluate how these efforts have addressed the rights and well-being of refugees, focusing on education, child protection, and gender equality. Through an in-depth analysis, the research highlights the effectiveness of a rights-based and participatory approach in humanitarian contexts. The findings reveal that Plan International Rwanda has significantly improved access to education for refugee children, especially girls. The organization has increased the enrollment of girls and reduced dropout rates by addressing cultural norms and economic barriers. Key initiatives include providing scholarships, building schools, and creating safe learning environments, which have collectively boosted retention and completion rates among refugee children (Banerjee et al., 2020; Awa et al., 2022). Gender equality initiatives by Plan International have empowered women and girls through economic and leadership programs, leading to greater income and decision-making power within households. These programs include vocational training and leadership workshops, enabling women to become active community members (Nielsen et al., 2018; Lopez-Torres, 2023). Child protection is another critical area where Plan International has been significantly impacted. Child protection policies and safeguarding mechanisms of Plan International have created safer environments for children, alleviating emotional distress and fostering a sense of security. Initiatives such as establishing child-friendly spaces, providing psychological support, and training community members to recognize and respond to abuse have been crucial (Patel et al., 2019; Nguyen et al., 2020). This study recommends enhancing community engagement, building staff capacity, improving coordination among beneficiaries, promoting gender equality, and ensuring accountability and transparency in humanitarian efforts. Strengthening community engagement involves involving refugees in decision-making processes and tailoring interventions to their specific needs and contexts. Building staff capacity includes training local and international staff on best practices in humanitarian response and human rights advocacy. (PHAP, 2023)