Horizon Sans frontières: Urges Dignity for Dakar 2026 Étrangers

• Horizon Sans frontières (HSF) urges Senegalese authorities to ensure security for Dakar 2026 without infringing on the dignity of foreign persons.
• HSF insists that operations like evictions and controls must be fact-based, follow regular procedures, and apply equally to all, regardless of nationality.
• The organization rejects equating irregular immigration with delinquency, stating that an irregular administrative situation is not a criminal offense.
• HSF reminds Senegal of its adherence to the 1951 Geneva Convention and the principle of non-refoulement, especially for those fleeing conflict in the Sahel.
• HSF calls for the preservation of "téranga," Senegal's tradition of hospitality and respect for foreigners, during the event preparations.

The organization maintains that while state sovereignty permits security measures, these should never justify practices perceived as degrading or disproportionate, advocating for necessary controls that are both framed by law and respectful of human dignity, whether within Dakar or internationally.

Horizon Sans frontières (HSF), an organization led by Boubacar Seye, a researcher and consultant specializing in international migration, has issued a critical appeal to Senegalese authorities concerning the treatment of non-nationals in the lead-up to the Jeux olympiques jeunesse Dakar 2026. HSF urges the government to prioritize security, public health, and traffic management without compromising the fundamental dignity of foreign persons. The organization specifically highlights operations such as `déguerpissement Dakar étrangers` (evictions) and various controls, insisting these interventions must be applied universally, targeting illegal occupation of public spaces, unauthorized activities, or other infractions irrespective of an individual's nationality.

HSF's position emphasizes that any such operations must be grounded in precise factual evidence, adhere to established legal procedures, and apply the same rules to all individuals. This call for equitable and dignified treatment of `Horizon Sans frontières Dakar 2026 étrangers` is consistent with the organization's broader advocacy. HSF has previously championed the rights of Senegalese citizens abroad, notably demanding the summoning of the American ambassador following what it deemed intrusive searches of Senegalese athletes in the United States. The organization maintains that while state sovereignty permits security measures, these should never justify practices perceived as degrading or disproportionate, advocating for necessary controls that are both framed by law and respectful of human dignity, whether within Dakar or internationally.

Central to Horizon Sans frontières' message is a firm rejection of equating `immigration irrégulière Sénégal` with criminal delinquency. The organization clarifies that an irregular administrative status, by itself, does not constitute a criminal offense. Instead, HSF advocates for the individual, transparent, and rights-respecting processing of all administrative situations, underscoring the importance of `Droits des étrangers Sénégal`. This perspective is particularly crucial when considering vulnerable populations, such as those who have fled severe threats, including wars, armed conflicts, or persecutions, especially prevalent in the Sahel region.

HSF further reminds Senegalese authorities of the nation's international obligations. Senegal is a signatory to the 1951 `Convention de Genève 1951 réfugiés Sénégal` relating to the Status of Refugees, as well as various African instruments designed for protection. A cornerstone of these commitments is the `principe de non-refoulement Sénégal`, which explicitly prohibits returning any individual to a territory where their life or liberty would be jeopardized. Adherence to these principles is paramount in ensuring that security preparations for the `Jeux olympiques jeunesse Dakar 2026` do not inadvertently compromise the safety and rights of those seeking refuge.

The advocacy by Horizon Sans frontières extends beyond legal frameworks to encompass Senegal's cultural identity. The organization makes a poignant appeal to preserve "téranga," a cherished Senegalese tradition synonymous with welcome, hospitality, and profound respect for the stranger. This cultural value, HSF argues, should guide the nation's approach to all non-nationals, reinforcing the idea that security measures can and must coexist with a spirit of openness and dignity.

The upcoming `Jeux olympiques jeunesse Dakar 2026` presents a unique opportunity for Senegal to showcase its commitment to both international standards and its own cultural heritage. By ensuring that all security and administrative operations are conducted with fairness, transparency, and respect for human rights, particularly concerning `Horizon Sans frontières Dakar 2026 étrangers`, Senegal can uphold its reputation as a welcoming nation while effectively managing the logistical demands of a major global event. The organization's consistent stance, both domestically and internationally, underscores the universal importance of dignified treatment for all, regardless of origin or administrative status.

Lawyers should advise clients (e.g., event organizers, businesses, NGOs) on the heightened scrutiny of security operations impacting non-nationals ahead of Dakar 2026, ensuring compliance with international human rights and refugee law, particularly regarding due process, non-discrimination, and the principle of non-refoulement. This includes preparing for potential challenges to administrative actions like evictions or controls that may be perceived as stigmatizing or disproportionate.

Source: Original reporting via Senenews