The Third Global Consultation on the Health of Refugees and Migrants was a collaborative effort by WHO, IOM, UNHCR, and Morocco to address the health needs of displaced populations. The consultation, held in Rabat, Morocco, aimed to secure lasting leadership and commitment to the health of refugees and migrants. The outcome was the adoption of the Rabat Declaration, which emphasized the importance of improving, protecting, and maintaining the health and well-being of refugees, migrants, and host communities.
Key messages from the report of the consultation highlighted the need for country-led action to address the health needs of refugees and migrants. Understanding the specific needs of these populations was also identified as a crucial component in providing adequate healthcare services. Additionally, the importance of including refugees and migrants in universal health coverage, addressing social determinants of health, and utilizing data- and research-driven approaches were emphasized in the declaration.
The consultation served as a platform for stakeholders to strengthen high-level political commitment to improving the health of refugees, migrants, and host communities. By focusing on these key areas, the Rabat Declaration aims to guide future efforts in promoting the health and well-being of displaced populations globally.
During the consultation held in Rabat last year (2019), WHO’s Regional Office for Africa collaborated with IOM’s African Regional Office (IOM Afri), UNHCR’s Africa Bureau (UNHCR Africa) and Moroccan authorities to discuss ways to address pressing challenges faced by refugee populations across Africa.
The conference had an impact on countries within Africa who have been grappling with how best to provide adequate healthcare services for their refugee population. One key message that came out from this meeting was that there is a need for country-led action on this issue.
Another crucial element identified during this meeting was understanding specific needs within these communities so that appropriate healthcare solutions can be put in place. It was also emphasized that including refugees in universal healthcare coverage is vital if we are going to ensure they receive necessary medical care.
Social determinants such as poverty or lack of accessibility were highlighted as significant barriers for many refugees seeking medical attention. Utilizing data-driven approaches will help bridge this gap by providing accurate information about where resources are needed most.
In conclusion, through its adoption at Rabat Declaration earlier this year (2020), stakeholders made commitments towards improving healthcare services for refugees across Africa. The hope is that this will set a precedent for other countries facing similar challenges globally
