Who is a Refugee?

People who are forced to flee their homes due to persecution, whether on an individual basis or as part of a mass exodus due to political, religious, military or other problems, are known as refugees. The definition of a refugee has varied according to time and place, but increased international concern for the plight of refugees has lead to a general consensus. As defined in the 1951 United Nations Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees (the Refugee Convention), a refugee is defined as a person who "owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his nationality, and is unable to or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself of the protection of that country or return there because there is a fear of persecution..."1 While the definition in the Refugee Convention has been used by international organizations such as the United Nations, the term continues to be misunderstood and is often used inconsistently in every day language. Media stories, for example, often confuse refugees with people migrating for economic reasons ("economic migrants") and persecuted groups who remain within their own country and dont cross an international border ("internally displaced persons"). The reasons for persecution must be because of one of the five grounds listed in article 1 A(2) of the Refugee Convention: race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion. Persecution based on any other ground will not be considered. 1.Race is used in the broadest sense and includes ethnic groups and social groups of common descent. 2.Religion also has a broad meaning, including identification with a group that tends to share common traditions or beliefs, as well as the active practice of religion. 3. Nationality includes an individuals citizenship. Persecution of ethnic, linguistic and cultural groups within a population also may be termed persecution based on nationality. 4.A particular social group refers to people who share a similar background, habits or social status. This category often overlaps with persecution based on one of the other four grounds. It has applied to families of capitalists, landowners, homosexuals, entrepreneurs and former members of the military. 5.Political opinion refers to ideas not tolerated by the authorities, including opinions critical of government policies and methods. It includes opinions attributed to individuals (i.e., the authorities think a person has a certain political opinion) even if the individual does not in fact hold that opinion. Individuals who conceal their political opinions until after they have fled their countries may qualify for refugee status if they can show that their views are likely to subject them to persecution if they return home. Definitions come into play when countries and organizations attempt to determine who is and who is not a refugee. Asylum seekersthat is, those who are seeking refugee status in another country-normally need to establish individually that their fear of persecution is well-founded and undergo a legal procedure in which the host country decides if she or he qualifies for refugee status. However, during a mass exodus, it may not be possible for a host country to carry out individual screening. In such circumstances, particularly when civilians are fleeing for similar reasons, a 'group' determination of refugee status may be declared, whereby each civilian is considered a refugee, in the absence of evidence to the contrary. International law recognizes the right to seek asylum, but does not oblige states to provide it. Nations at times offer 'temporary protection' when they face a sudden mass influx of people and their regular asylum systems would be overwhelmed. In such circumstances people can be speedily admitted to safe countries, but without any guarantee of permanent asylum. Thus 'temporary protection' is helpful to both governments and asylum seekers in specific circumstances. Yet it only complements and does not substitute for the wider protection measures offered by the Refugee Convention.

The 1951 United Nations Convention and Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugee

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Refugee protection and assistance organizations generally promote three "durable solutions" to the fate of refugees: - Voluntary repatriation: refugees are able to return to their home country because their lives and liberty are no longer threatened; - Local integration: host governments allow refugees to integrate into the country of first asylum; and - Resettlement in a third country: repatriation is unsafe and the first-asylum country refuses local integration. Most of the world's refugees wait for durable solutions for their predicament. While most have been granted provisional or temporary asylum in neighboring countries, they are not able to regularize their status or integrate. Their rights to move and work are often highly restricted, and educational and recreational opportunities are often nonexistent or severely lacking. These refugees may also be subject to attack, either by local security forces or by cross-border incursions from the country of origin. A special category are people who may have been forced to flee their homes for the same reasons as refugees but they have not crossed an international border. These people are called internally displaced persons. By the end of 2011, there were approximately 11.5 million refugees around the world who had fled their countries for a variety of reasons and an even greater number of internally displaced persons, between 20 - 25 million, who had abandoned their homes for similar reasons. Increasingly the majority of current conflicts in the world involve disputes between political or ethnic groups within countries rather than wars between countries. Given this trend, the number of persons caught up in conflicts in their own countries and forced to leave their homes is likely to increase. 12 million refugees in 2011 COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Afghanistan Iraq Burundi Sudan Angola Somalia Bosnia-Herzegovina Democratic Rep. Congo Vietnam Eritrea MAIN COUNTRIES OF ASYLUM Iran / Pakistan Iran Tanzania Uganda / Ethiopia / D.R. Congo / Kenya / Central African Rep. Zambia / D.R. Congo / Namibia Kenya / Yemen / Ethiopia / USA / United Kingdom Yugoslavia / Croatia / Slovenia Tanzania / Congo / Zambia/ Rwanda / Burundi China / USA Sudan REFUGEES 3,809,600 554,000 530,100 489,500 470,600 439,900 426,000 392,100 353,200 333,100

Rights at Stake Prohibition of the forced return of a refugee is called nonrefoulement and is one of the most fundamental principles in international refugee law. This principle is laid out in Article 33 of the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, which says that no state "shall expel or return ('refouler' in French) a refugee in any manner whatsoever to the frontiers of territories where his life or freedom would be threatened on account of his race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion."

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Some countries detain asylum seekers upon arrival, during the asylum process or while waiting for deportation (refoulement). Asylum seekers may have already suffered imprisonment and torture in the country from which they have fled. Therefore, the consequences of detention may be particularly serious, causing severe emotional and psychological stress. Article 31 of the Refugee Convention says that refugees should not be penalized for having entered a country illegally if they have come directly from a place where they were in danger and have made themselves known to the authorities. Therefore, asylum seekers should not be detained for being in possession of forged identity papers or for destroying identity or travel documents. Articles 12 - 30 of the Refugee Convention set out the rights which individuals are entitled to once they have been recognised as Convention refugees: a) All refugees must be granted identity papers and travel documents that allow them to travel outside the country b) Refugees must receive the same treatment as nationals of the receiving country with regard to the following rights: - Free exercise of religion and religious education - Free access to the courts, including legal assistance - Access to elementary education - Access to public relief and assistance - Protection provided by social security - Protection of intellectual property, such as inventions and trade names - Protection of literary, artistic and scientific work - Equal treatment by taxing authorities c) Refugees must receive the most favourable treatment provided to nationals of a foreign country with regard to the following rights: - The right to belong to trade unions - The right to belong to other non-political nonprofit organizations - The right to engage in wage-earning employment d) Refugees must receive the most favourable treatment possible, which must be at least as favourable to that accorded aliens generally in the same circumstances, with regard to the following rights: - The right to own property - The right to practice a profession - The right to self-employment - Access to housing - Access to higher education e) Refugees must receive the same treatment as that accorded to aliens generally with regard to the following rights: - The right to choose their place of residence - The right to move freely within the country - Free exercise of religion and religious education - Free access to the courts, including legal assistance - Access to elementary education - Access to public relief and assistance - Protection provided by social security - Protection of intellectual property, such as inventions and trade names - Protection of literary, artistic and scientific work - Equal treatment by taxing authorities

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Key assistance agencies The following organizations play key roles in assisting and protecting refugees worldwide: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was created in 1951 to assist in the international protection of refugees. The organization's primary objective is to ensure that all persons can exercise the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. One of the agency's pressing tasks is to encourage governments to adopt fair and flexible processes to promote just and effective refugee law. When UNHCR was first established, material aspects of refugee relief (e.g., housing, food) were seen to be the responsibility of the government that had granted asylum. As many of the world's more recent major refugee flows have occurred in less developed countries, however, UNHCR has acquired the additional role of coordinating material assistance for refugees and returnees. Although this was not UNHCR's original mandate, coordination of material assistance has become one of its principal functions alongside protection and the promotion of solutions. The International Organization of Migration (IOM) assists with the return of rejected asylum seekers and refugees referred by UNHCR. International Committee of the Red Cross. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that acts as a neutral entity in assisting and protecting victims of war, from providing medical care to victims to arranging exchanges of family messages. As members of the civilian population, displaced persons benefit from ICRC protection and assistance activities including the protection of civilians; visits to detainees; medical assistance; food aid; and restoration of family links between persons separated by war. The ICRC does not have a general mandate to provide protection and assistance to internally displaced persons. Over the years, however, it has provided limited assistance to certain groups of internally displaced persons. The ICRC is considered well placed to provide such help given its experience in humanitarian and crisis situations. These operations have been carried out at the request of the UN Secretary-General or the General Assembly, at the request of the country involved. International and Regional Instruments for Protection International legal instruments take the form of a treaty (also called agreement, convention, protocol) which may be binding on the contracting states. When negotiations are completed, the text of a treaty is established as authentic and definitive and is "signed" to that effect by the representatives of states. There are various means by which a state expresses its consent to be bound by a treaty. The most common are ratification or accession. A new treaty is "ratified" by those states who have negotiated the instrument. A state which has not participated in the negotiations may, at a later stage, "accede" to the treaty. The treaty enters into force when a pre-determined number of states have ratified or acceded to the treaty. When a state ratifies or accedes to a treaty, that state may make reservations to one or more articles of the treaty, unless reservations are prohibited by the treaty. Reservations may normally be withdrawn at any time. In some countries, international treaties take precedence over national law; in others, a specific law may be required to give an international treaty, although ratified or acceded to, the force of a national law. Practically all states that have ratified or acceded to an international treaty must issue decrees, amend existing laws or introduce new legislation in order for the treaty to be fully effective on the national territory. Many international treaties have a mechanism to monitor the implementation of the treaty. The Refugee Convention does not have such a body that monitors state obligations and commitments towards asylum seekers. The following international and regional treaties determine standards for the protection of refugees and displaced persons:

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1.UNITED NATIONS Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) (article 14) The first international document that recognizes the right to seek and enjoy asylum from persecution. Geneva Convention relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War (1949) (article 44, 70) This treaty protects refugees during war. Refugees cannot be treated as "enemy aliens". Protocol Additional to the Geneva Conventions of 12 August 1949, and relating to the Protection of Victims of International Armed Conflicts (Protocol 1) (1977) (article 73) "Persons who, before the beginning of hostilities, were considered as stateless persons or refugees ... shall be protected persons..., in all circumstances and without any adverse distinction." Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees (1951) This was the first international agreement covering the most fundamental aspects of a refugee's life. It spelled out a set of human rights that should be at least equivalent to freedoms enjoyed by foreign nationals living legally in a given country and in many cases those of citizens of that state. It recognized the international scope of refugee crises and necessity of international cooperation -- including burdensharing among states -- in tackling the problem. This was the first international agreement covering the most fundamental aspects of a refugee's life. It spelled out a set of human rights that should be at least equivalent to freedoms enjoyed by foreign nationals living legally in a given country and in many cases those of citizens of that state. It recognized the international scope of refugee crises and necessity of international cooperation -- including burden-sharing among states -- in tackling the problem. As of 1 October 2002, 141 countries had ratified the Refugee Convention. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966) (article 2, 12, 13) The main international treaty on civil and political rights stipulates that states should ensure the civil and political rights of all individuals within its territory and subject to its jurisdiction (article 2). The Covenant also guarantees freedom of movement and prohibits forced expulsion. Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees (1967) Removes the geographical and time limitations written into the original Refugee Convention under which mainly Europeans involved in events occurring before 1 January 1951 could apply for refugee status. Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (1984) (article 3) Article 3 (2) states that a consistent pattern of gross and massive violations of human rights are circumstances which a state should take into account when deciding on expulsion. The monitoring body of this convention, the Committee Against Torture, has established some fundamental principles relating to the expulsion of refused asylum seekers. It offers important protection to refugees and their right not to be returned to a place where they fear persecution. Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) (article 22) A rticle 22 of this convention stipulates that "States Parties shall take appropriate measures to ensure that a child who is seeking refugee status or who is considered a refugee ... shall ... receive appropriate protection and humanitarian assistance in the enjoyment of ... rights.... States Parties shall provide ... cooperation in ... efforts ... to protect and assist such a child and to trace the parents or other members of the family of any refugee child ... for reunification with his or her family. In cases where no parents or other members of the family can be found, the child shall be accorded the same protection as any other child ... deprived of his or her family environment...." Declaration on the Elimination of Violence against Women (1993) Recognizes the particular vulnerability of refugee women. Handbook on Procedures and Criteria for Determining Refugee Status under the 1951 Convention and the 1967 Protocol relating to the status of refugees This handbook is widely accepted by practitioners and most governments as an authoritative interpretation of the Refugee Convention.

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Guiding principles on Internal Displacement A set of 30 recommendations for the protection of internally displaced persons. The Guiding Principles define who the internally displaced are, reiterates the large body of international law already in existence protecting a person's basic rights and outlines the responsibilities of states. It is made clear that internally displaced persons have the right to leave their country, seek asylum and be protected against forcible return to their homeland. 2.AFRICAN UNION (FORMERLY ORGANIZATION OF AFRICAN UNITY, OAU) Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa (1969) Accepted the definition of the 1951 Refugee Convention and expanded it to include people who were compelled to leave their country not only as a result of persecution but also owing to: external aggression, occupation, foreign domination or events seriously disturbing public order. This definition is a wider definition than the one found in the UN Refugee Convention and adapts the definition to the reality of the developing world. The African Union's definition also recognizes non-state groups as perpetrators of persecution and it does not demand that a refugee shows a direct link between herself or himself and the future danger. It is sufficient that the refugee considers the harm sufficient to force her/him to abandon their home. African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (1990) (article 13) This treaty stipulates special provisions of refugee children that are unaccompanied by parents or guardians. 3.COUNCIL OF EUROPE Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms (1950) (article 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 16) The European Convention on Human Rights does not contain any right to asylum and it makes no direct reference to asylum seekers or refugees. A very important case by the European Court of Human Rights (Soering v. the United Kingdom, 1989), however, established that states were indeed responsible, in certain instances, for the well being of individuals in other countries. The case concerned article 3 of the European Convention that "No one shall be subjected to torture or inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment". In recent years the European Court has again stressed the unconditional nature of the prohibition against ill-treatment and established the principle that a state wishing to deport even an individual found guilty of a serious criminal offence or constituting a threat to national security must first make an independent evaluation of the circumstances the individual would face in the country of return. Although article 3 is most often called upon to protect asylum seekers and refugees, other articles may also be invoked to ensure that their human rights are respected. In particular article 4 (prohibition of forced or compulsory labour), article 5 (deprivation of liberty), article 6 (right to a fair and impartial hearing "within a reasonable time"), article 8 (respect for private and family life), article 9 (right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion), article 10 (right to freedom of expression), article 13 (right to the grant of an effective remedy before a national authority) and article 16 (no restrictions on political activity of aliens) can offer substantial protection. 4.ORGANIZATION OF AMERICAN STATES (OAS) Cartagena Declaration on Refugees (1984) The refugee definition of the Cartagena Declaration builds upon the OAU adding to it the threat of generalized violence; internal aggression; and massive violation of human rights. Unlike the definition in the refugee convention by the African Union, however, a refugee must show a link between herself or himself and the real risk of harm; all applicants must demonstrate that "their lives, safety or freedom have been threatened". This demand is similar to the UN Refugee Convention, which requires individuals to Page 6 of 30

show that they risk persecution as a particular individual rather than in general. Although not formally binding, the Cartagena Declaration has become the basis of refugee policy in the region and has been incorporated in to the national legislation of a number of States. Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment and Eradication of Violence Against Women "Convention of Belem do Para" (1994) (article 9) Takes into account of the vulnerability of women and girls to violence by reason of, among others, their race or ethnic background or their status as: migrants, refugees or displaced persons.

National Protection and Service Agencies The 1951 Refugee Convention does not force a state to admit a refugee, that is to grant asylum. It is clear that there is a gap here between the individual's right to seek asylum and the state's discretion in providing it. As a result of this ambiguous state of affairs, government's practice in granting asylum varies widely, both in terms of the procedure they use for determining refugee status and the actual legislation that is applied. States can ask the UNHCR for assistance in determining refugee status. A majority of states that have ratified the Refugee Convention have not adopted domestic legislation to implement this treaty. Nonetheless, many of these countries have provided protection to massive numbers of individuals fleeing persecution. Although this action has saved many lives, it has rarely been accompanied by procedures for individually determining refugee status. As a result, refugees in these countries are often uncertain as to their status and rights, and have no guarantee that they will not be arbitrarily returned. Approximately one-third of the states that have ratified the Refugee Convention have enacted domestic legislation to implement the treaty. Although the details of the legislation vary a great deal from state to state, there are certain common elements arising out of the commitments of the Refugee Convention and as a result of the procedures recommended by the UNHCR. These states generally offer asylum to individuals who conform to the article 1 A (2) definition of a refugee. There is room for interpretation, however. For example: - What constitutes persecution? - What evidence shows that a fear is well founded? - How are the grounds for persecution defined (race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, political opinion)? Aside from government service agencies many non-governmental and volunteer organizations provide assistance to asylum seekers and refugees.

2012 UNHCR country operations profile Afghanistan

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The situation in Afghanistan remains volatile, with continuing conflict and random violence causing further internal displacement. The lack of security hinders UNHCR's operations and access to people of concern. Another challenge is to ensure regular and reliable information on areas in which UNHCR operates, so that policies can be implemented effectively and safely. The political situation continues to be in flux, although measures to promote security and stability are pursued by international and national actors. The people of concern to UNHCR in Afghanistan total some 1.3 million, comprising asylum-seekers, refugees, returning refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). UNHCR provides protection and supports policies and mechanisms that promote the sustainable reintegration of returning refugees. It also responds to the immediate humanitarian needs of IDPs and, where possible, pursues durable solutions for them. In addition to the establishment of peace and security, the key to Afghanistan's future stability is an improvement in the services provided by the Government to its citizens. It is a cornerstone of UNHCR's strategy to support the efforts of the Government in this area, particularly through District Offices throughout the country. Preparations are ongoing for the Afghan Stakeholders Conference scheduled for early 2012. The Conference will establish a platform for dialogue among relevant stakeholders from Afghanistan, the Islamic Republic of Iran and Pakistan. A three-year road map for action will be drawn up and will include the identification of strategic partnerships, and the investments required to achieve a set of comprehensive solutions to the displacement issues that have risen as a result of the conflict in Afghanistan. Through its leadership of the protection and emergency-shelter clusters, as well as the IDP Task Force, UNHCR is responsible for coordinating joint humanitarian activities in Afghanistan.
The needs

More than 5.7 million refugees -- 4.6 million of them with UNHCR assistance -- have returned to Afghanistan since 2002, increasing the population of the country by some 25 per cent. UNHCR has conducted an assessment in 2011, to gauge the level of reintegration achieved by the returnees. The survey, which covered both urban and rural areas, has shown that more than 40 per cent of returnees have not reintegrated into their home communities. Similar conclusions were reached by a joint UNHCR and World Bank study among urban populations. Specific areas needing improvement include land tenure and housing, livelihood opportunities, and access to public services and water. The first half of 2011 has seen a rapid increase in conflict-induced internal displacement in Afghanistan, creating nearly 100,000 new IDPs and bringing the total IDP population to approximately 500,000 people. Securing access to the displaced, responding to their immediate needs and pursuing advocacy aimed at reducing displacement and promoting returns are key tasks for UNHCR. The same applies to the humanitarian assistance being provided by UNHCR to those affected and displaced by natural disasters. Although the number of refugees who have fled to Afghanistan is small in comparison with that of IDPs and returnees in the country, there is neither a legal framework nor appropriate
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mechanisms to respond to their protection and assistance needs. Another systemic problem is the lack of facilities to solve land disputes, which prolongs displacement. Cultural, informal and religious laws, which are frequently used in the settlement of disputes, are often at odds with international standards. This is particularly the case with regard to the protection needs of women and girls. Carefully calibrated approaches are therefore required to ensure that effective mechanisms are in place to address such issues. Another cause of concern is the number of Afghan minors arriving in Europe in recent years. Dealing with this will require coordination with the Afghan authorities and relevant international organizations.

UNHCR 2012-2013 planning figures for Afghanistan JAN 2012 TYPE OF POPULATION ORIGIN DEC 2012 - JAN 2013 DEC 2013

OF WHOM OF WHOM OF WHOM TOTAL IN TOTAL IN TOTAL IN ASSISTED ASSISTED ASSISTED COUNTRY COUNTRY COUNTRY BY UNHCR BY UNHCR BY UNHCR 685,150 685,150 30 10 30 -784,170 40 10 40 10 784,170 40 10 40 10 884,170 40 10 40 10 884,170 40 10 40 10

Total

Islamic Rep. 30 of Iran Refugees Iraq Pakistan Various People in refugee-like situations 10 30 --

Pakistan

10,000

10,000

15,000

15,000

15,000

15,000

Islamic Rep. 40 of Iran Asylumseekers Pakistan Various Returnees (refugees) IDPs 40 --

40 40 -165,000 500,000

40 40 10 162,000 600,000

40 40 10 162,000 600,000

40 40 10 162,000 700,000

40 40 10 162,000 700,000

Afghanistan 165,000 Afghanistan 500,000

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UNHCR 2012-2013 planning figures for Afghanistan JAN 2012 TYPE OF POPULATION ORIGIN DEC 2012 - JAN 2013 DEC 2013

OF WHOM OF WHOM OF WHOM TOTAL IN TOTAL IN TOTAL IN ASSISTED ASSISTED ASSISTED COUNTRY COUNTRY COUNTRY BY UNHCR BY UNHCR BY UNHCR 10,000 7,000 7,000 7,000 7,000

Returnees (IDPs)

Afghanistan 10,000

Strategy and activities in 2012 UNHCR's objectives are aligned with the Afghanistan National Development Strategy and the UN Integrated Strategic Framework. With more than 2.7 million Afghan refugees in the region and an estimated 3 million around the world, UNHCR will continue to support members of this caseload to repatriate voluntarily to Afghanistan. It will seek to improve immediate return assistance and also pursue a more comprehensive approach to sustainable reintegration. UNHCR's transitional solutions initiative, which bridges the gap between humanitarian assistance and development, seeks closer cooperation with other UN agencies and Afghan line ministries. Lessons learned from a pilot reintegration programme implemented in 2011 are currently informing this multi-year strategy, which promotes targeted community-based interventions in areas of high return, designed to raise returnees' standards of living to national levels. Key areas of intervention include shelter, income generation, livelihoods, water and education. Up to 20,000 houses will also be provided to returning refugees to order to sustain their return. For IDPs, UNHCR is engaged in direct data management, tracking, protection coordination and humanitarian assistance. Advocacy in support of prevention, response and durable solutions also remains key. UNHCR helps IDPs to return to their areas of origin in safety and dignity by providing them with logistics and shelter support, as well as protection. UNHCR is working with the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation in drafting refugee legislation. Pending the establishment of Government procedures, UNHCR conducts direct refugee status determination (RSD) and pursues durable solutions for those found to be in need of international protection. UNHCR provides legal information and advice to people of concern in Afghanistan, and provides material assistance to people with specific needs. Constraints Insecurity, political instability and economic and social problems are likely to continue in 2012 and may increase as international forces transfer security responsibilities to national partners. Military operations, including those in response to violent incidents and armed fighters, may cause further Page 10 of 30

displacement. Efforts to access and provide immediate and timely humanitarian assistance to the newly displaced may be hampered by insecurity. Currently, the UN has direct access to less than half the country. Though UNHCR has put in place innovative measures to expand its reach, including through partners, access to people of concern remains precarious. UNHCR will continue to review its operational environment to ensure staff safety and security. Appropiate mitigation measures may have significant resource implications. Sustainable reintegration is facing new challenges as competition for land, water, natural resources and employment grows sharper. Access to employment is frequently constrained by the lack of social and economic networks. Moreover, the overwhelming development needs in the country make it increasingly difficult for UNHCR to secure sufficient resources to support returning refugees. Organization and implementation Coordination UNHCR engages actively with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Rural Rehabilitation, and Housing and Urban Development. The main government counterpart -- the Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation -- will be assisted to strengthen its management capacity related to policy development, emergency response and technical assistance. Greater operational responsibilities for repatriation, monitoring and speedy identification of IDPs will be entrusted to relevant District Offices. The active engagement of other key partners will also be sought. These partners include the Ministries of Justice; Labour and Social Welfare (for skills training and employment of returnees); and Women's Affairs, as well as local civil society organizations for gender issues. UNHCR will continue to support the Information and Legal Aid Centres run by the Norwegian Refugee Council. The centres provide legal services and train lawyers, judges, local authorities and other actors who participate in informal systems for the resolution of disputes. As part of the UN Country Team, UNHCR works with UNAMA, UNDP, UN-Habitat, WFP, ILO, WHO and UNICEF as well as the World Bank. UNHCR's role in leading the protection and emergency shelter clusters as well as co-chairing the national and regional IDP task forces will continue. Cooperation will be strengthened with OCHA and with IOM, as designated lead agency for the coordination of natural disaster-induced displacements, assistance to vulnerable deportees and migration issues. Special attention will be paid to fostering cooperation with major UN agencies, relevant government departments and other actors in selected sites and communities, to ensure comprehensive reintegration interventions. An MOU recently concluded with UNDP will form an integral part of the new reintegration strategy. Partner mobilization will aim to enhance the protection and reintegration of people of concern and to optimize UNHCR's response to emergency situations. Communications with other stakeholders and public information campaigns will highlight the impact of these efforts. Financial information The budget in 2012 for Afghanistan has increased by USD 39 million from 2011, owing to renewed efforts to promote the sustainable reintegration of refugee returnees, to address the needs of increasing numbers of IDPs, and to enhance the security of staff and implementing partners. The trends over the past

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years show that the funds required for Afghanistan have remained stable, though substantial, reflecting the needs of the continuously growing number of people of concern to UNHCR in the country.2 2012 UNHCR country operations profile - Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country characterised by ethno-national political divisions and a complex administrative system, impeding efforts to resolve outstanding displacement issues stemming from the Balkan conflicts that ended 16 years ago. As a result, there are still 113,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in need of a solution. Bosnia and Herzegovina is also host to some 6,800 refugees from Croatia. Since 2010, countries in the region have demonstrated renewed interest in closing the displacement chapter, consolidating their efforts to find durable solutions for people of concern. In the case of Bosnia and Herzegovina, this will help to ensure stability both domestically and regionally, and assist in the country's efforts to join the European Union (EU). In addition, the June 2010 adoption of the Revised Strategy for the Implementation of Annex VII of the Dayton Peace Agreement provides a framework for resolving the outstanding displacement issues. UNHCR will continue to support its implementation through advocacy and direct assistance for the most vulnerable persons of concern. UNHCR works closely with the authorities in order to strengthen the asylum system and bolster refugee protection. While legislation on asylum is generally in line with international and regional standards, implementation remains problematic. There are an estimated 5,000 people at risk of statelessness in Bosnia and Herzegovina, mainly Roma people, who often face serious obstacles to effective citizenship with full access to their rights and entitlements. The needs

UNHCR GLOBAL APPEAL 2012-2013

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Many of the IDPs and returnees whose situation remains fragile, require continued support to overcome difficulties in gaining access to their rights and finding employment. Some 8,500 displaced persons continue to live in collective accommodation -- a solution that was only meant to be temporary -- and are among the most vulnerable of populations of concern in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Many are physically and mentally challenged, chronically ill, elderly, without income and/or cannot return to their places of origin due to serious protection concerns. UNHCR continues to advocate for tailored interventions to meet the most pressing needs of this extremely vulnerable population, and is working closely with the relevant authorities on solutions for them. In theory, refugees have access to education, health care, employment and social welfare services under the same conditions as nationals, but in reality such access is limited. Refugees who wish to integrate locally find it extremely difficult to obtain residence permits. People at risk of statelessness, mostly Roma people, struggle in nearly every area of life, owing to widespread discrimination, as well as the consequences of not having civil documents nor being registered which, in turn restricts their access to rights, such as health care, education and employment. Moreover, documentation gaps increase the risk of exposure to various abuses, including human trafficking. Strategy and activities in 2012 UNHCR's approach in Bosnia and Herzegovina seeks to respond to both protection and assistance needs of large groups of IDPs and returnees, refugees and asylum-seekers, and a significant number of Roma at risk of statelessness. Key priorities for 2012 and 2013 are access to rights, free legal aid, income generation, and support for return and local integration. In 2012 and 2013, UNHCR will: Advocate measures with the national authorities to bring to an end the protracted displacement chapter of the residual IDP population. Ensure access to free legal aid, income generation and livelihood projects for returnees and displaced people, in addition to supporting housing initiatives for displaced persons to facilitate their local integration. Build the capacities of social welfare centres so as to enable them to assist people of concern. Help the authorities to strengthen the asylum system and ensure refugees and asylum-seekers have access to their rights. Support refugees from Croatia with free legal aid and/or income-generating activities so that they can find durable solutions, either through voluntary repatriation or local integration. Help Roma at risk of statelessness to gain civil-status documentation. Constraints The fragmented nature of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Government structures and society hinders recovery and reconciliation efforts. Moreover, the decentralized and complex administrative structure creates confusion over responsibility for important State functions. Such conditions are not conducive to the development of clear and effective means for ensuring human rights and protecting refugees and asylum-seekers. Although asylum legislation is largely in line with international standards, concerns persist as to the manner in which the legislation is interpreted and implemented. Page 13 of 30

The social welfare system is grossly underfunded and the needs surpass its capacity. The economy has not yet recovered from the global economic crisis and unemployment remains high, making it difficult to sustain livelihoods, particularly for people of concern to UNHCR. Organization and implementation Coordination UNHCR continues to work alongside the authorities at all levels, in particular with the Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees and the Ministry of Security. The Office is also on the Board of Principals, which is composed of members of the key international agencies in the country. It is an active member of the UN Country Team, and works closely with other international organizations, such as the Office of the High Representative, the EU, Council of Europe and OSCE, as well as various international and national NGOs, donors and multilateral bodies. Financial information The budget for Bosnia and Herzegovina calls for USD 15 million in 2012, and USD 9.1 million in 2013, the progressive reduction reflecting the phasing down of UNHCR's operational involvement in the country. Of the budgeted amount, 62 per cent is allocated for IDPs, 28 per cent for refugees and asylum-seekers and 10 per cent for stateless people. Important components of the budget concern durable solutions for vulnerable IDPs, support for self-reliance and the provision of livelihood opportunities.

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UNHCR 2012-2013 planning figures for Bosnia and Herzegovina JAN 2012 TYPE OF ORIGIN POPULATION DEC 2012 - JAN 2013 DEC 2013 OF WHOM ASSISTED BY UNHCR 13,510 --

OF WHOM TOTAL IN TOTAL IN ASSISTED COUNTRY COUNTRY BY UNHCR 150,760 35,160 230 140,870 4,970

OF WHOM TOTAL IN ASSISTED COUNTRY BY UNHCR 25,280 800 91,490 --

Total Croatia

6,000

Refugees

Serbia (Kosovo SC 140 Res. 1244) Various 30

140

140

140

130

130

30

30

30

30

30

Asylumseekers

Serbia (Kosovo SC 20 Res. 1244) Various 70

20

--

--

--

--

70 50

80 450

80 50

80 400

80 30

Returnees (refugees) IDPs Returnees (IDPs) Stateless Others of Concern

Bosnia and 500 Herzegovina Bosnia and 95,000 Herzegovina Bosnia and 450 Herzegovina Stateless 4,900

30,000

90,000

20,000

60,000

10,000

450 1,000 3,170

320 3,900 40,980

320 900 2,970

200 3,000 27,650

200 1,000 2,040

Bosnia and 43,650 Herzegovina

2012 UNHCR country operations profile Iraq

Page 15 of 30

UNHCR is working with the Government of Iraq to end displacement through a comprehensive plan that should be fully operational in 2012. No significant movement of Iraqis either into or out of Iraq is foreseen in 2012. Although the events in the Syrian Arab Republic had not generated significant flows across the Iraqi-Syrian border as of August 2011, the situation remains volatile. UNHCR stands ready for any potential influx of returning Iraqi refugees, or of asylum-seekers and refugees from neighbouring countries. Some one million people remain displaced throughout the country, of whom hundreds of thousands live in dire conditions. Most are unable to return to their areas of origin because of the volatile security situation, the destruction of their homes, or lack of access to services. Some 38,000 refugees and asylum-seekers live in camps, settlements or urban centres, including some 10,000 Palestinians who reside in the capital, and another 210 or so in Al Waleed Camp in Al-Anbar governorate in Iraq. The needs Internal displacement remains a major problem, and internally displaced persons (IDPs) require continued assistance and protection from UNHCR until a dignified solution is found to their plight. Families live in poor settlements without adequate shelter and with limited access to water, electricity, schools and health centres. Some 470,000 people reside in 382 settlements in Iraq, including 156,000 in 125 settlements in Baghdad. Many people illegally occupy land and buildings, and are at risk of eviction. Iraqi returnees -- refugees and IDPs -- are also likely to face many challenges when they return home, such as continuing insecurity in some areas, unemployment and a lack of basic services and documentation. Refugees in camps and urban settlements are also vulnerable, and require protection and regular assistance from UNHCR. Stateless people face similar problems. UNHCR 2012-2013 planning figures for Iraq TYPE OF ORIGIN JAN 2012 DEC 2012 - JAN 2013 DEC 2013

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POPULATION

OF WHOM OF WHOM OF WHOM TOTAL IN TOTAL IN TOTAL IN ASSISTED ASSISTED ASSISTED COUNTRY COUNTRY COUNTRY BY UNHCR BY UNHCR BY UNHCR 1,577,050 490,100 Islamic Rep. 7,400 of Iran 7,400 8,700 15,400 200 1,440 1,337,700 409,100 7,400 8,700 15,400 200 1,380 7,400 8,700 15,400 200 1,380 1,080,350 333,680 7,100 8,400 15,000 150 1,200 7,100 8,400 15,000 150 1,200

Total

Refugees

Palestinians 8,700 Turkey Various 15,400 200

Islamic Rep. 1,440 of Iran Asylumseekers Syrian Arab 500 Rep. Turkey Various Returnees (refugees) IDPs Iraq Iraq 400 10 75,000

500 400 10 50,000

200 400 20 50,000

200 400 20 30,000

160 320 20 25,000 850,000 3,000

160 320 20 15,000 250,000 250

1,143,000 350,000 5,000 400

1,000,000 300,000 4,000 300

People in IDPIraq like situations Returnees (IDPs) Stateless Iraq Iraq

200,000 120,000

55,500 150

150,000 100,000

45,000 100

100,000 70,000

36,000 80

Strategy and activities in 2012 UNHCR will continue to collaborate with its partners to ensure that refugees, IDPs and returnees in Iraq are able to enjoy their fundamental rights. The Office will work to integrate IDPs in their areas of displacement, or provide them with basic services in their areas of return. In 2011, some 68 per cent of IDPs surveyed by UNHCR in Baghdad indicated that they still preferred to stay in their area of displacement rather than return to their area of origin. Page 17 of 30

UNHCR will reinforce its partnership with the Government to implement the comprehensive plan to address displacement, as scheduled for 2012. It will advocate for the identification of durable solutions for communities affected by displacement, such as community-based integration projects and the allocation of land. Targeted protection and assistance, including the provision of health, education and medical services, will be provided to some 38,000 refugees and asylum-seekers. UNHCR will also advocate for the increased involvement of the Government in supporting both refugee and IDP communities. To ensure the sustainability of return, UNHCR will work with the Ministry of Displacement and Migration to increase its capacity to assist refugees returning to the country. Emergency stocks of nonfood items, including hygiene kits, will be maintained for up to 60,000 people, to deal with unforeseen displacements. Furthermore, UNHCR will continue to advocate for Iraq's accession to the 1951 Refugee Convention, as well as to the 1954 Statelessness Convention. Training and workshops will be conducted for the authorities, national NGOs and local leaders and communities. UNHCR will help strengthen the capacity of the Government to conduct registration and refugee status determination (RSD). It will also assist the authorities to formulate a plan for identifying and registering stateless people and helping them regain their nationality, in accordance with the nationality law passed in 2006. UNHCR will use the 18 Protection Assistance and Return Centres (PARCs), 40 mobile teams all over the country as well as six Return Integration and Community Centres (RICCs) in Baghdad to monitor protection, provide legal counselling and help people of concern to enjoy their fundamental rights. Border monitoring will be strengthened, and border officials trained in protection. UNHCR will also closely monitor the ongoing deportations of Iraqi citizens from Europe or from countries neighbouring Iraq.

Constraints Random acts of violence compromise staff security and hinder UNHCR's access to many people in need. Iraq's entry into a period of transition -- the withdrawal of American forces is due for completion by the end of 2011 -- could have unforeseen effects on humanitarian activities. However, UNHCR is committed to continuing its operations in Iraq and to implementing its assistance and protection programmes, both through its own staff and through partners in the field. Organization and implementation Coordination UNHCR is fully engaged in the comprehensive plan drafted by the Ministry of Displacement and Migration to address the needs of the displaced. It will continue to strengthen collaboration with its national partners, especially through its National NGO Partnership Programme, launched in 2009. Close ties will be maintained with the UN Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), as well as with other UN agencies. UNHCR and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights co-chair the UN Development Assistance Framework protection, governance and human rights working groups. The UNHCR Database Tracking Project and protection databases are being expanded to improve monitoring of the population of concern, and are being made fully accessible to partners.

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Financial information For 2012, UNHCR's budget for Iraq is sharply reduced, as financial support from donors continues to decline -- a constant trend over the past two years. At the same time, UNHCR looks forward to an increase in the financial contribution of the Government of Iraq. The 2012 budget includes shelter activities throughout the country, with an emphasis on Baghdad and Diyala governorates. The programme component for shelter and, the improvement of living conditions in settlements represents almost a third of the total budget requirement. Other areas of focus are improving the protection environment, providing documentation and support to persons of concern in getting their basic rights as well as developing the capacity of relevant Ministries and addressing the needs of persons of concern through a network of protection and legal aid centres all over the country. 2012 UNHCR country operations profile Somalia

Somalia has been without a central government since 1991. Continued conflict has led to the division of the country into three distinct regions: the self-declared Republic of Somaliland, the semiautonomous state of Puntland, and south and central Somalia (including the capital, Mogadishu) where the Transition Federal Government (TFG) is based.The conflict is mainly located in south and central Somalia, where the TFG, supported by African Union peacekeepers (AMISOM), is opposed by Islamist insurgents. In early August 2011, Islamist insurgents withdrew from Mogadishu after fierce fighting with the TFG/AMISOM forces. On 20 July 2011, the UN Country Team in Somalia announced that parts of southern Somalia (Bakool and Lower Shabelle) were experiencing famine. It is expected that the affected area will expand to include all of southern Somalia, from Hiran to the Jubas and Gedo, by the end of the year. Continuing insecurity, violations of human rights and humanitarian law, and restrictions imposed on aid agencies by the insurgents in control of most of southern Somalia have aggravated the dire situation of the population. Currently there are some 4 million people in the country who lack food security. At the end of July 2011, there were around 1,46 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), 6,900 asylum-seekers and 1,965 refugees in Somalia. Puntland and Somaliland host refugees, asylum-seekers, and migrants from neighbouring countries. They live mainly in urban areas and often experience xenophobia, hostility, exploitation and arbitrary detention. They are in need of medical, educational and livelihood assistance. Page 19 of 30

UNHCR maintains its presence in Puntland, Somaliland, and southern and central Somalia, where protection and assistance programmes are implemented for all people of concern. The overall coordination function of the UNHCR programme in Somalia is based in Nairobi, Kenya. The needs It is expected that the negative impact of Somalia's famine will be felt throughout 2012. UNHCR will thus need to scale up its famine emergency programme, and distribute enhanced assistance packages to the affected population. UNHCR will need to improve the distribution of core relief items and emergency shelter to improve the situation in IDP settlements in Somalia. The majority of IDPs in Somalia live in extremely congested settlements, on privately owned land, without water and sanitation facilities. They are frequently subjected to abuse and exploitation. UNHCR needs to assist some 700,000 people with shelter and relief items, as well as provide emergency shelter kits, including some 3,000 in Puntland, some 2,000 in Somaliland, and 1,000 in southern and central Somalia. Women are not adequately protected in Somalia. UNHCR will galvanize efforts and strengthen measures to address the under-reporting of sexual and gender-based violence and tackle the apparent indifference of law enforcement officials. The response needs to be revamped, along with increased availability of legal remedies and medical assistance through partners. Somalia is one of the main departing points for mixed migratory movements. People embark from clandestine ports in Somalia in order to cross the Gulf of Aden, putting their lives at great risk. UNHCR needs to consolidate the existing mixed migration response centres with additional qualified personnel, while also increasing their number in Puntland and Somaliland. To support the local infrastructure in both regions, UNHCR needs to construct more border and coastal police posts to tackle human trafficking and smuggling. Strategy and activities in 2012 UNHCR's interventions in Somalia focus on its global cluster lead responsibilities in the provision of shelter/core relief items and protection. In shelter, UNHCR plans to distribute some 120,000 enhanced assistance packages, 12,000 transitional shelters, 5,900 permanent shelters, and improve the social infrastructure in settlements. UNHCR will focus on Protection Risk Mitigation Projects livelihood interventions targeting some 4,000 vulnerable households, of which 80 per cent female-headed; neighbourhood watch systems in IDP settlements; peaceful coexistence projects (including in host communities); response and support programmes for some 1,500 survivors of gender-based violence; solar lighting for civilian protection, and the Population Movement Tracking (PMT) and Protection Monitoring Network (PMN) systems. The PMT monitors the displacement of population inside Somalia in order to assist agencies in planning assistance. The PMN monitors incidents against civilians and violations of human rights and serves as an advocacy tool. UNHCR's cluster activities alone will not be able to address all the needs of people of concern in Somalia. There will be a continuing need to engage other partners in order to have a comprehensive response. In this regard, UNHCR will act within the UN humanitarian coordination mechanism to galvanize support for IDPs. At the same time, recognizing that many of the IDPs have been displaced for Page 20 of 30

more than a decade, UNHCR will have to reinforce its partnership with development partners such as UNDP, FAO and ILO in order to bridge the gap between relief assistance and development. Refugees In Somaliland and Puntland, UNHCR will focus on the protection of people of concern within larger mixed migratory flows. An RSD procedure prioritizing the most vulnerable asylum-seekers has been established, with emergency resettlement submissions limited to the most vulnerable. People of concern with urgent needs will also receive subsistence allowances, replacing the blanket allocation of monthly allowances previously provided to all recognized refugees. To complement this approach, UNHCR will support the self-reliance initiatives and livelihood opportunities of 1,500 individuals. Access to health facilities, primary education and secondary education will be increased. To reduce xenophobia in host communities towards refugees and asylum-seekers and promote peaceful coexistence, UNHCR will give limited support to public hospitals and schools offering services to people of concern. Since July 2011, UNHCR has been in discussions with the Somaliland and Puntland authorities to resume the registration of asylum-seekers in 2012. Constraints In 2012, the current political and security stalemate in Somalia is likely to continue. As a consequence, localized conflicts may emerge in many parts of Somalia among groups seeking control of territory and resources. There is a risk of more hostility, competition and division along clan lines. Humanitarian access will remain limited, though there may be improvements in some areas. The adverse impact of the 2011 famine will be felt for a long time, especially in areas where livelihoods have been lost, inflating displacement figures and the cost of food.

Organization and implementation Coordination UNHCR coordinates the emergency shelter and protection clusters in Somalia. It also co-leads the Puntland IDP Task Force, created by the Humanitarian Coordinator/Resident Coordinator to respond to the multi-faceted challenges facing IDPs in Puntland. UNHCR has been working closely with IOM and the Danish and Norwegian Refugee Councils, as well as local authorities, to assist and protect stranded migrants. Furthermore, UNHCR has strengthened its partnership with FAO to ensure long-term livelihoods in aid of voluntary IDP relocation. The Office has participated in the drafting of the UN Integrated Strategic Framework, the first UN attempt to develop an overall strategy covering humanitarian, development and political issues in Somalia. Financial information The Somalia budget has been increasing since 2007 to respond to a growing number of IDPs, especially in southern and central areas. The number of refugees has been stagnant due the suspension of registration in Somaliland. The 2011 budget for the Somalia operation is USD 75.5 million. A Supplementary Budget of USD 8,6 million was launched in 2011 in response to the famine crisis in the Page 21 of 30

Horn of Africa, to cover additional needs in Somalia. In 2012, UNHCR plans to give priority to protection, the provision of shelter and emergency assistance packages, protection risk mitigation for IDPs, and the delivery of basic services for the refugee population. In order to address the needs in a comprehensive and sustainable manner, more than USD 48 million is needed in 2012 UNHCR 2012-2013 planning figures for Somalia JAN 2012 DEC 2012 - JAN 2013 DEC 2013 OF WHOM ASSISTED BY UNHCR 804,100 60 2,860 10 30 50 1,010 20 60 800,000

TYPE OF OF WHOM ORIGIN POPULATION TOTAL IN ASSISTED TOTAL IN COUNTRY BY COUNTRY UNHCR Total Eritrea 1,509,250 40 609,250 40 2,160 100 20 40 6,830 20 40 600,000 1,510,980 50 2,490 10 20 40 8,300 20 50 1,500,000

OF WHOM ASSISTED TOTAL IN BY COUNTRY UNHCR 703,510 50 2,490 10 20 40 830 20 50 700,000 1,513,200 60 2,860 10 30 50 10,120 20 60 1,500,000

Ethiopia 2,160 Refugees Tanzania 100 Various 20 Eritrea 40

Ethiopia 6,830 Asylum-seekers Tanzania 20 Various 40 IDPs Somalia 1,500,000

2012 UNHCR country operations profile - Syrian Arab Republic

Page 22 of 30

The Syrian Arab Republic hosts one of the largest urban refugee and asylum-seeker populations in the world. The Government and people of the Syrian Arab Republic continue to maintain a generous open door policy that allows Iraqi refugees to seek asylum and gain access to basic services such as education and primary health care. Moreover, the normalization of relations between Iraq and the Syrian Arab Republic in early 2011 has led to a simplification of the visa process for Iraqis wishing to enter the Syrian Arab Republic. UNHCR, with the support of the international community and in active partnership with the Syrian authorities, was able to maintain the protection space granted to refugees and asylum-seekers. With the assistance of the Syrian Arab Red Crescent, it has continued to provide them with essential services and assistance. The widespread unrest throughout the country has nonetheless caused delays in some capacity building and training work with national counterparts and has slowed the development of a formal legal framework for refugees and asylum-seekers. Among the positive political reforms recently initiated related to statelessness, the decision on granting citizenship was adopted under Decree No. 491 in April 2011. In addition, a law has been drafted allowing Syrian mothers to pass on their nationality to their children. UNHCR has formally informed the Syrian authorities of its readiness to provide any support these initiatives and their implementation may require. The needs Refugees and asylum-seekers, particularly Iraqis, have continued to approach UNHCR for registration in 2011, albeit in smaller numbers than in the past. At the same time, there was more interest in assisted voluntary repatriation as well as independent departures, including back to Iraq. Beyond the general protection concerns resulting from the current unrest in Syria, its social and economic impact on people of concern is likely to require UNHCR to provide them with significant direct assistance in the near future. Moreover, the current situation in the Syrian Arab Republic is likely to cause serious delays in the resettlement programme, jeopardizing refugees' access to this durable solution.

Page 23 of 30

With refugees exhausting their personal resources and international assistance for public health and education programmes on the decline, new vulnerabilities could arise even among those who used to be able to provide for themselves. Strategy and activities in 2012 UNHCR's overall aim is to meet protection and assistance needs by moving from direct implementation to greater investment in and reliance on partnerships with national actors and refugees, thereby increasing the sustainability of the response. Key activities will include advocacy to maintain the protection space and continued support for the establishment of a legal framework for refugees. It will also target financial assistance more precisely, based on a review of existing beneficiaries and the identification of refugees whose coping mechanisms are affected by the changing political and socio-economic environment. UNHCR will maintain the inter-agency review of access to medical services and the prioritization of education interventions and, where possible, hand over specific programme components to partners. Interventions will focus on building national capacity, including in preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence and providing psychosocial mental health support. A comprehensive self-reliance strategy will be defined and implemented. Initial indications from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour point to the possibility of self-reliance opportunities for a limited number of beneficiaries, primarily long-stayers and those least likely to repatriate. Resettlement departures in 2012 are expected to remain high in absolute terms but represent a relatively low percentage of the overall population (roughly 10%). It is anticipated that the resettlement of most of the Palestinians from Iraq residing in Al Hol Camp will allow for the closure of this camp by early 2012. Concerning statelessness, the Decree No. 491 of April 2011, and the draft law on the transfer of nationality have given UNHCR an opportunity to renew its offer of support to the authorities. UNHCR will focus on advocacy, and seek partnerships with relevant national actors to contribute to a constructive dialogue on statelessness issues. Constraints As of mid-2011, all planning assumptions were subject to political and security developments in the Syrian Arab Republic and Iraq, which could cause further delays in activities involving government counterparts, and affect options open to refugees. Organization and implementation Coordination The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to be UNHCR's main partner at the policy level for refugee protection and the development of a national asylum framework, while the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC) remains UNHCR's key operational partner. The ministries of Education, Higher Education and Social Affairs and a small number of international NGOs are other important counterparts. Partnerships with local associations will also play a bigger role in UNHCR's 2012 strategy.

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In addition to the coordination structure defined by the inter-agency Refugee Response Plan, the 2012-2016 UN Development Assistance Framework for the Syrian Arab Republic establishes stronger links between humanitarian and development programmes. These should be of particular benefit in the areas of health care, education, public infrastructure, material assistance distribution, capacity-building for mental health and psychosocial support, and the integration of vulnerable aliens in programmes tackling disparity, youth and juvenile justice. Financial information The 2012 budget for the Syrian Arab Republic stands at USD 94.5 million, 20 per cent less than that for 2011 due to the projected reduction in the number of registered Iraqi refugees. However, while the number of refugees shows a declining trend, their humanitarian needs are rising as their vulnerability increases. The 2012 budget includes monthly financial stipends, health care, education and other services for people with specific needs. UNHCR 2012-2013 planning figures for the Syrian Arab Republic JAN 2012 TYPE OF ORIGIN POPULATION DEC 2012 - JAN 2013 DEC 2013 OF WHOM ASSISTED BY UNHCR 85,600

OF WHOM TOTAL IN ASSISTED TOTAL IN COUNTRY BY COUNTRY UNHCR 1,161,600 118,600 1,162,600

OF WHOM ASSISTED TOTAL IN BY COUNTRY UNHCR 102,600 1,160,600

Total

[1] Statistics provided by the Government of the Syrian Arab Republic. Afghanistan 1,500 Iraq [1] Refugees Somalia Various 2,650 2,700 2,650 2,700 500 3,000 350 900 -2,650 2,700 500 4,000 350 900 150,000 2,650 2,700 500 4,000 350 900 -2,650 2,700 500 2,000 350 900 150,000 2,650 2,700 500 2,000 350 900 -1,000,000 1,500 107,000 1,500 1,000,000 1,500 90,000 1,500 1,000,000 1,500 75,000

Afghanistan 500 Asylumseekers Iraq Somalia Various Stateless Stateless 3,000 350 900 150,000

Page 25 of 30

2012 UNHCR country operations profile Libya

The uprising and subsequent revolution that began in Libya in February 2011 have resulted in historic changes to the political, economic and social fabric of the country. Although at the time of writing the conflict appeared to be nearing its conclusion, clashes still continued in some parts of the country. The heavy fighting, shelling and bombings during the conflict have caused widespread civilian displacement, especially in front-line areas on the coast and in the Western Nafusa Mountains region. Since February 2011, more than 900,000 people have left the country. Most were third-country nationals, but more than 660,000 Libyans have also fled. In addition, an estimated 200,000 people have been internally displaced. With the situation improving, significant numbers of Libyans have begun to return from abroad and within the country to their places of origin but many remain unable or unwilling to return. Prior to the conflict, there were some 11,000 refugees and asylum-seekers registered with UNHCR in Libya, most living in urban areas in and around Tripoli. While Libya is a party to the OAU's 1969 Convention Governing the Specific Aspects of Refugee Problems in Africa, it is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention. No national legislation or administrative structures have been established to address matters of asylum. As such, refugees and asylum-seekers are part of a mixed-migration context that includes up to two million migrants, having entered the country owing to Libya's "open door" policy and historical position as a destination country for people seeking employment and a departure point for Europe. While many third-country nationals, including some refugees and asylum-seekers, left during the conflict, others continued to arrive in search of employment, in transit or to seek asylum. Page 26 of 30

The needs With Libya's political and economic situation in a state of transition and security improving but still uncertain, numerous humanitarian needs are expected, especially among pockets of vulnerable people being identified throughout the country. For the Libyans who fled during the conflict, both internally and abroad, return to their places of origin will be conditional on several factors including, in addition to security, a functioning public infrastructure, such as schools and health facilities; measures to eliminate unexploded ordnance; the availability of clean water; and opportunities for livelihoods. Issues of emergency shelter, land and property will also need to be addressed, given the serious damage in places such as Misrata and the occupation of public buildings and open spaces by IDPs during the return process. For many IDPs unable or unwilling to return, reconciliation as part of a broader transitional justice framework is likely to be critical to ensure peaceful coexistence between communities. Given the large quantities of unsecured firearms, abandoned ordnance, the proliferation of small arms among the general population and the presence of multiple armed groups, security will remain a challenge for all persons of concern. Refugees and asylum-seekers will also face an uncertain future in the post-conflict environment. Third-country nationals, refugees and asylum-seekers who have been displaced alongside Libyan civilians have lost their livelihoods and face increased risks of arrest and detention. In the future, protection space will be closely linked with the development of Libya's new migration policies. At the same time, there could be unparalleled opportunities for advocacy with the new Government to develop progressive national asylum policies, including accession to the 1951 Refugee Convention. Strategy and activities in 2012 UNHCR's strategy in 2012 will focus on re-establishing protection and assistance for refugees and asylum-seekers, and identifying durable solutions in the new Libyan context. In the absence of national legislation and asylum mechanisms, UNHCR will conduct and strengthen registration and refugee status determination (RSD) and pursue durable solutions, including resettlement, voluntary repatriation and local integration, in cooperation with the Government. As Libya moves toward early recovery and restoration of public services, basic cash assistance, medical care and educational support for vulnerable persons of concern will be vital to bridge the gaps and support self-reliance. With positive signals from the National Transitional Council, and in the framework of a newly established relationship with the authorities and the signing of an agreement by both sides, UNHCR will assist the authorities to establish national asylum institutions and, potentially, accede to the 1951 Refugee Convention. UNHCR will also facilitate the sustainable return and reintegration of Libyan refugees from neighbouring countries and of IDPs within Libya. It will provide urgent assistance to the most vulnerable IDPs who are unable or unwilling to return to their places of origin. UNHCR has deployed mobile teams of lawyers, social workers and data specialists who will continue to track population movements and monitor the protection needs of returnees and IDPs. Particular attention will be paid to emerging issues relating to housing and access to land and property. UNHCR will also build on its shelter damage assessments and mapping through pilot rehabilitation programmes for extremely vulnerable IDPs and returnees in heavily affected locations such Page 27 of 30

as Misrata. People with specific needs will be assisted through, for instance, training and awareness programmes on sexual and gender-based violence, urgent referrals where required, and distribution of non-food items. The sustainability of return and reintegration will be supported through quick-impact projects that will assist returnees and host communities, and through local community-based reconciliation initiatives. These will be accompanied by a comprehensive programme focusing on the improvement of public attitudes towards persons of concern to minimize the impact of xenophobia, racism and intolerance. With Libya's transition to a human rights-sensitive society, UNHCR will continue to place strong emphasis on training and capacity building, including for local councils, law enforcement and key government counterparts. With an emerging and growing civil society, national NGOs, especially women's organizations, will also be supported in capacity building. UNHCR is participating with other UN agencies and the EU in a post-conflict needs assessment process that will lead into the formulation of a multi-agency recovery plan for Libya. Constraints While the post-conflict transition in Libya is expected to open significant new opportunities to uphold human rights and the rule of law; the political, operational and security environment remains uncertain and unpredictable. Much remains unknown in terms of the inclusiveness of the political process, disarmament and reconciliation between opposing factions in the new Libyan regime. In this context, UNHCR will need to respond promptly to pockets of vulnerability, as and when they are identified, and strongly advocate for the protection of refugees and asylum-seekers in Libya. Organization and implementation Coordination The National Transitional Council is in the process of forming an interim government and holding national elections. As government ministries resume functions and new ministries take shape, UNHCR expects close coordination with the Ministries of Justice and the Interior, as well as other counterparts, such as LibAid and the Libyan Red Crescent. Within the UN system, UNHCR will maintain its role as lead of the protection and emergency shelter clusters and will coordinate with and support the work of the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). In areas related to human rights, rule of law and transitional justice, UNHCR will seek to develop, with the relevant services within UNSMIL, close synergies and, if possible, joint interventions. Implementing and operational partners will continue to make a significant contribution to UNHCR's activities across all geographic regions in Libya, including in protection monitoring, shelter, distribution of non-food items and community services for persons of concern with special needs. Financial information The requirements for Libya have increased considerably from USD 6.2 million at the beginning of 2011 to USD 31.2 million as a consequence of the conflict in the country. While UNHCR will continue its work with all stakeholders in expanding the protection space for all persons of concern, the 2012 comprehensive budget foresees an increase in the provision of basic services, with particular attention to community-based activities Page 28 of 30

UNHCR 2012-2013 planning figures for Libya JAN 2012 DEC 2012 - JAN 2013 DEC 2013 OF WHOM ASSISTED BY UNHCR 27,500 18,000

TYPE OF OF WHOM ORIGIN POPULATION TOTAL IN ASSISTED TOTAL IN COUNTRY BY COUNTRY UNHCR Total Refugees People in refugee-like situations Returnees (refugees) IDPs 121,000 Various 13,000 57,000 10,000 90,000 20,000

OF WHOM ASSISTED TOTAL IN BY COUNTRY UNHCR 35,500 12,500 58,000 25,000

Various 8,000

5,000

15,000

5,000

18,000

6,000

Various 35,000 Various 65,000

12,000 30,000

20,000 35,000

8,000 10,000

10,000 5000

1,500 2,000

-Conclusions As you can see,there have been and continue to have problems in terms of refugees,especially in the countries mentioned(strong hostile).An effective employment of international organizations(such as the UN,UNHCR,ICRC) and local structures is a response expected by hundreds of thousands of people,and there are plans,approaches. The fate of these persecuted people should not be viewed as a merchant but a prompt,decisive decision.Your life is an inalienable right! The welfare,freedom of thoughts, a job, a express ideas without fear of persecution that should not matched with the impossible.A joint effort,good faith of
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those territories hostile to neighboring countries is a help.Security conditions are priority! Collective security guarantee starts from the assumption of individual security.It is not something over us! For decades they tended to be forgotten or ignored,but nowadays they probably form the single largest group of vulnerable people in the world. FORGOTTEN NO LONGER !!!

- bibliography

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

http://www.unhcr.org United Nations, Treaty Series,vol.189(1954),no.2545 Text of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees Text of the 1967 Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees Resolution 2198(XXI) adopted by the United Nations General Assembly http://www.refunite.org

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