The UNHCR has cautioned the Kenyan government against stigmatizing refugees.

In a statement released today, the UNHCR has expressed concern over a recent decision by the government's to stop the registration of refugees and the order for them to go back to Daadab and Kakuma camps as a result of rising cases of insecurity. It has also warned the government against linking refugees to the recent spate of violence

"UNHCR has noted recent public statements linking the presence of refugees to these security incidents. We caution against stigmatization of refugees and asylum-seekers...UNHCR counts on the authorities to ensure that adequate land and facilities are made available so that the provision of asylum in Kenya remains in line with international standards"

The government issued an order directing unregistered refugees living in urban areas to return to their camps. The order comes in the wake of a series of attacks along the Kenyan and Somali border as well as Nairobi's Eastleigh area.