Closing the gap: Labour rights, documentation and decent work for refugee and host community youth in Uganda

This executive summary synthesises findings from an ILO PROSPECTS Programme consultation examining labour rights, documentation barriers, and access to decent work for refugee and host community youth in Uganda. Based on mixed-methods research involving 152 participants across Nakivale, Rhino Camp, Imvepi, and Kampala, the study reveals significant gaps between Uganda’s progressive refugee policy framework and the lived realities of young people seeking employment.

Key findings show low awareness of labour rights, widespread exclusion linked to documentation and work permit procedures, and limited access to effective complaint and justice mechanisms. The study also identifies gender, disability, language, and geographic location as major drivers of information inequality and labour market exclusion. In response, the report proposes actionable recommendations for government institutions, development partners, employers, and civil society to strengthen labour administration, improve access to documentation and rights information, and promote inclusive pathways to decent work and economic inclusion.