Empirical Insights into Managing Internal Displacement from the Cameroon Anglophone Crisis: Opportunities for Enhanced Crisis Governance in Africa

Abstract The United Nations Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement and the African Union Convention for the Protection and Assistance of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) emphasise that States are primarily responsible for addressing internal displacement and seeking durable solutions. Nevertheless, most African nations have yet to embrace this responsibility. They are reluctant to incorporate specific legal provisions from internal displacement frameworks into their policies/laws, thereby hindering effective implementation. Consequently, managing internal displacement remains challenging, as States continue to rely on limited/unstable humanitarian assistance. This study examines the Cameroon Government’s management of internal displacement resulting from the Anglophone crisis, employing qualitative research that utilises semi-structured interview data. The findings reveal that Government ministries struggle to adequately provide basic support to IDPs affected by the Anglophone crisis. Most ministries reported an inability to support sustainable livelihoods, citing a lack of responsibility and empowerment. There is also confusion about which ministries should lead efforts to support IDPs in maintaining their livelihoods. Finally, there remains a common belief that IDPs will achieve greater sustainability by returning “home” after the crisis. Overall, the findings suggest that the Government must adopt a proactive approach to managing internal displacement and enhance support for IDPs, prioritising durable solutions.