Media Statements

Justice Department observes World Refugee Day

17 June 2016

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DOJ&CD) joins the world in observing the World Refugee Day, which is observed on 20 June annually to raise awareness of the challenges faced by refugees, which include discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerances.

In addressing these challenges, the Department together with other role players spearheaded the development of Draft National Action Plan to combat Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerances (NAP). The draft NAP seeks to provide basis for the development of a comprehensive public policy at both private and public level.  The NAP is not intended to replace existing laws and policies but rather to be complimentary to the existing legislation, policies and framework which address equality, equity and transformation.

The draft NAP was approved by the Cabinet on 09 December 2015 and has been made available on the departmental website for public comments since 18 December 2015.

The Department is currently embarking on provincial consultations as the last phase of the public consultation process up until the end of June 2016 where the department and members of the public interface.     

Once finalised the NAP will be valid for five years and renewed on an annual basis. This means that those who could not make input will still have an opportunity as the document is reviewed on annual basis.

As we celebrate World Refugee Day, the Department calls on all sectors of society to respond to the challenge of intolerances that still persist in relation to refugees, by making inputs in this regard to the draft NAP by 30 June 2016.

This year’s World Refugee Day coincides with the Gauteng provincial consultation on the draft NAP, which will be hosted by the Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr. John Jeffery.

Members of the media are invited as follows:

Date   :           20 June 2016
Time   :           08:30
Venue:           Saint George Hotel and Convention Centre, Goedehoop Avenue, Plot 58, Doornkloof (M57), Irene, Gauteng

For media confirmations contact Solly Kganyago 083 499 8243 / skganyago@justice.gov.za

Issued by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development

Enquiries: Mthunzi Mhaga
Spokesperson for the Department of Justice and Correctional services
0836418141
Mediaenquiries@justice.gov.za