Mali Passes Landmark Law to Protect Stateless Persons, UNHCR Welcomes Move

Bamako, July 1 (IANS): The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has welcomed Mali's recent adoption of a pioneering law aimed at improving the rights and living conditions of stateless individuals. In a statement released on Monday, the agency praised the move as a critical advancement for human rights in the country.

"The adoption of this law marks a major step forward in human rights protection in Mali and clearly demonstrates the government's commitment to ending statelessness. It brings hope to thousands of vulnerable people," said Georges Patrick Menze, UNHCR acting representative in Mali.

The newly passed legislation formally defines statelessness and clearly outlines the rights and obligations of those identified as stateless persons. It applies both to stateless migrants and individuals born within Mali’s borders, ensuring they are granted the same rights as Malian citizens. These rights include access to health care, education, employment, housing, and the justice system, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

Crucially, the law includes protective measures for individuals who lack civil documentation. It prohibits penalizing stateless persons for not possessing legal documents and restricts expulsion or deportation, except under specific conditions. Additionally, it opens the door for stateless individuals to acquire or confirm Malian nationality, offering a permanent resolution to their status.

Mali has long grappled with statelessness, particularly among vulnerable populations such as nomadic groups, refugees, and people living in remote border regions. These communities often lack access to civil registration systems, leading to generations without official identity.

Since 2017, with support from the UNHCR, Mali has taken notable steps toward resolving this issue. Nearly 2,400 individuals have been granted Malian nationality, and over 30,000 people have received civil documentation during this period.

The UNHCR reaffirmed its commitment to assisting the Malian government in implementing the new legislation. It also called on the international community to maintain its support, emphasizing the importance of sustained cooperation to eradicate statelessness.

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