Malawi : a reform to open the labor market to refugees

SOS Médias Burundi

Dzaleka, October 16, 2026 — The Malawian refugee legislation could be undergoing a major overhaul. The National Human Rights Commission, also known as the Law Commission, is preparing a draft amendment to the 1988 Refugee Act to better address refugees’ needs, particularly regarding access to employment, trade, and freedom of movement.

As part of this process, the Commission has been conducting consultations at several refugee sites in Malawi, including Dzaleka, to gather testimonies, concerns, and proposals from those affected. The goal is to develop a legal framework better suited to their daily lives and likely to facilitate their integration into the Malawian society.

The right to work and trade at the heart of the proposals

Among the main changes envisaged is a broadening of opportunities for refugees in the economic and social spheres. The proposal notably aims to enable them to access employment, engage in commercial activities, and move more freely within Malawi.

These changes could transform the living conditions of refugees, whose access to the labor market and opportunities to participate in the local economy remain limited by the current legal framework.

In the Dzaleka camp, refugees hope that the future legislation will take greater account of their daily struggles. They advocate for an inclusive law that would allow them to strengthen their autonomy, develop income-generating activities, and contribute more to the economic and social life of their host country.

A reform expected before the end of the year

The Commission intends to submit its draft amendment to Parliament for consideration. According to the announced timeline, the new law is expected to be adopted and enacted before the end of 2026.

Malawi hosts refugees and asylum seekers of various nationalities. Their number is estimated at over 80,000, including more than 11,000 Burundian nationals, according to figures presented in this report.

If adopted as planned, the reform could have a direct impact on the daily lives of these individuals, particularly by facilitating their access to employment, business activities, and mobility.

Beyond revising the 1988 law, refugee rights advocates hope this initiative will contribute to strengthening their autonomy and integration in Malawi.