An examination of refugee – host community conflicts: a case study of Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement

Abstract

This study examined conflicts between refugees and host communities in Bidi Bidi Refugee settlement. The study was guided by three specific objectives, namely, (i) identifying existing conflicts and causes; (ii) profiling the key stakeholders are instrumental in managing refugees and host community relations and, (iii) proposing effective interventions for managing conflicts. Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement in Yumbe District, Uganda, has become one of the largest and most complex refugee-hosting environments globally. Home to over 285,000 South Sudanese refugees, Bidi Bidi presents a unique model of Uganda's inclusive refugee policy, which allows refugees freedom of movement, access to work, education, and the right to cultivate land. While this model has drawn international commendation for its progressive stance, it has also brought with it significant challenges, particularly in terms of conflicts between refugees and host community. Anchored on constructivist philosophy, the study adopted a qualitative approach grounded in both Resource Accessibility and Conflict Transformation Theories. Respondents of the study were key stakeholders who play a critical role in managing refugee - host community relations. These were refugee leaders, host community leaders, officials from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), the United Nations High Commissioner for refugees (UNHCR), NGOs and the Police. Focus group discussions and direct observation were used as a means of collecting data. Seven focus group discussions were conducted. 66 participants took part in the study. Data analysis employed a thematic approach. From the findings, unmet expectations in exchange for giving land to settle refugees, hosts’ perceptions of unequal treatment and land disputes were identified as the root causes of the conflict. Resource competition, environmental pressures and gender-based violence have been identified as major conflict drivers. In parallel, socio-economic grievances driven by perceptions of inequality in access to aid, social services and employment opportunities, coupled with challenges associated with security and safety contribute to deepening divisions between the two populations. The study identified a range of strategies for sustainable conflict management. These include community sensitization, equitable resource-sharing, inclusion of local leaders in peacebuilding, and the establishment of joint livelihood initiatives to reduce dependency and foster cooperation. The findings point to the necessity of addressing not only the material needs of affected communities but also their deeper psychological, cultural, and identity-based needs. The study concludes that sustainable peace in Bidi Bidi depends on holistic, inclusive approaches that go beyond humanitarian relief to include conflict-sensitive development and genuine community engagement. These insights may also be applicable to other large-scale refugee contexts across the region and globally