UNGA: Refugee Advocate Monicah Malith calls for structural reforms in decolonizing the Global Refugee regime

New York, 

Tuesday, 24 September, 2024 

McCreadie Andias 

Refugee Advocate Monicah Malith adressed the United Nations General Assembly summit of the future on structure reforms that will better the future of refugees across the world. 

Malith Noted that urgent policy and structure reforms guiding the lives of refugees and defining their immediate future, must be revised. 

"The truth is the gaps are widening, the structures are rusting, and therefore out future reforms must not be rehearsed platitudes but revolution of thoughts 

Malith noted that the summit should be a bridge to mend the structures in trust and build a future where more justice, equity and humanity are at the centre. 

Malith who shared her unique story before world leaders, met with President William Ruto during Monday's session at the United Nations General Assembly. 

In her speech, she also highlighted Kenya's indelible commitment to warmly welcome refugees, supporting them and giving them hope as reflected through her story.

Malith who was elected President of the University of Nairobi Students Association described the achievement as " a first of its kind" as she was the first international president of UNSA. 

"My journey at The University of Nairobi has been a great experience that opened doors even to where I am today; 

I got empowered through Education and Leadership." She said. 

"I'll forever be grateful to Windle International Kenya (DAFI Schorlaship), University of Nairobi, Kenya, UNHCR KENYA UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency for their support thus far. Where I am now, It's only God" She added in a statement. 

Malith called for refugees to be given an opportunity to shape and forge their own future. 

This comes amidst pressing calls for meaningful participation in the refugee regime, where they demand to be given their own seat on the main table where discussion and conversations about their own future and lives are held. 

Refugees have long called to be actively involved as primary stakeholders and not just participants in conversations about their own lives. 

"Not theirs to cling to, Not theirs to pass down like spoils of war. It belongs to the bold, To those who speak,  

I pick my choice, and I choose to speak! 

The Future belongs to those who demand more— More justice, more equity, more humanity.I demand for A Better Future!" Maluth expressed in a poem noting that only refugees understand more of their own plight hence they must be on the forefront of finding solutions". 

Malith was grateful for the overwhelming engagement from participants and leaders who she claims, are ready to join hands in forging a better future for all. 

"This is just the beginning of a collaborative journey toward positive change!" Malith says.