The Plight of Varese’s Evicted Residents
Millions of people are displaced every year as a result of conflict, human rights violations and natural disasters. Some cross borders and seek protection and assistance as refugees, but the majority remain internally displaced within their country.
They face a range of challenges, including increased vulnerability to physical and sexual violence, deprivation of food and health services, exploitation by armed groups, and the loss of social norms. They are also often at risk of psychological harms, such as depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, which can have long-lasting consequences on their lives and the health of their families.
Evictions are a serious violation of human rights and should be avoided as much as possible, especially when the land is owned by the community. Authorities should ensure that evicted residents receive adequate compensation for the losses they have suffered, and investigate any abuses.
The Displaced and Forgotten: The Plight of Varese’s Evicted Residents
Affected families have told Human Rights Watch that they are facing a difficult time trying to feed themselves and their children in the camp. Many have become ill as a result of the coronavirus pandemic that has spread through Kenya since March, and several have been forced to stop working because of their illnesses.
In addition, the evictions have affected their livelihoods. Some families have lost their lands, which they had used to grow food, make a living from livestock, or raise goats. Others have been unable to sell their property because of restrictions on re-selling or renting out their land.
The evictions have disrupted the lives of thousands of families and led to at least nine deaths in a single month, according to family members who interviewed by Human Rights Watch. The evictions have harmed the lives and health of displaced residents, and their plight is only likely to worsen as the government restricts access to food and other essential supplies.
While Kenyan authorities have promised to provide the displaced with cash transfers, they have so far not done so. They should also take steps to help evicted residents get back on their feet, and ensure that their families are not denied food or other essential goods.
The camp has been a home for many of the evicted residents, but some have struggled to survive due to the shortage of food and other necessities. In particular, elderly people have been unable to buy the medicines they need to stay healthy.
In addition, a number of people have suffered from injuries caused by the evictions. Some have been injured in the police attack, and a woman has been disabled by a stroke that she says was caused when the evictions team broke into her home.
A few have been able to find work or rely on donations from well-wishers and political leaders. But even these aren’t enough to sustain them.
In a situation of crisis, governments have a duty under international law to protect the rights of all their citizens, regardless of the circumstances. They must comply with the law, provide an effective right to challenge evictions, hold those responsible accountable, and give attention to vulnerable and marginalized groups.