Paper short abstract:

Unveiling Refugee Health System in Ethiopia: Challenges and the Call for Compassionate Reformation

Paper long abstract:

Ethiopia’s persistent commitment to hosting refugees is underscored by its progressive refugee policy, particularly in providing healthcare. This study explored the refugee health system and responses to scabies in a refugee camp in Ethiopia. We conducted interviews with various key informants, affected individuals, and caregivers. In addition, observations took place at different settings. It reveals that the camp's conditions have reduced refugees to a state resembling Agambenian bare life. The health system endured challenges involving insufficient funding, high staff turnover and lengthy recruitment process, and inadequate facilities. In 2023, over 110,000 refugees relied on a single health centre and health post, competing with illegal private pharmacies. These stem from the absence of a clear strategy for integrating refugee health with the national health system and the health system’s reliance on external funding sources characterised by inherent uncertainty amid global political and economic dynamics. The absence of durable solutions to refugees’ plight has led to overstretched services, trying to accommodate the escalating refugee population in the camp. The research calls for compassionate, committed, and comprehensive responses, including increased funding, strategic retention measures, clear integration strategies, advocacy for stable external funding, and the implementation of durable solutions. Furthermore, a holistic approach to scabies interventions is emphasised, addressing the broader challenges of the camp setting.

Key Words: Bare life, Ethiopia, Health System, Refugee, Scabies