IH MUN 2023

BACKGROUND GUIDE:
UNITED NATION HUMAN RIGHT
COUNCIL
AGENDA:
HUMANITARIAN THREAT DUE TO
EUROPEAN REFUGEE CRISIS
 LETTER FROM EXECUTIVE BOARD
Greetings delegates,

Welcome to the UNITED NATIONS human rights council of inter house model UNITED NATIONS
conference 2023.The agenda for the committee is as follows

HUMANITARIAN THREAT DUE TO EUROPEAN REFUGEE CRISIS

The primary purpose of this background guide is to provide the delegates with a comprehensive
understanding of the committee proceedings and the agenda. However, it should be noted that this
guide does not attempt to cover all possible areas of discussion. We strongly advise the delegates to
conduct further research beyond this guide, utilizing it only as a point of departure.

The past year has been marked by several significant global events that have sparked worldwide
attention and raised concerns across various sectors. As members of the global community, we are
obligated to be informed and engaged in these matters. This year's agenda is focused on discussing
pertinent issues that require immediate attention and proactive solutions.

UNAUSA Rules of Procedure shall be adhered to for the due course of this committee simulation. For
all those participating in a model UN conference for the first time, and otherwise, kindly refer to this
for understanding the procedure

http://www.unausa.org/global-classrooms-model-un/how-to-participate/model-unpreparation/rules-of-
procedure

It is important to remember that mistakes and nervousness are natural when presenting in front of
others. The executive board is committed to providing the necessary support and guidance to the
delegates throughout the conference. We welcome constructive feedback on this background guide and
recognize that this is our first time serving as an executive board. We look forward to learning
alongside the delegates.

We assure you that we are committed to provide you with the necessary support and guidance
throughout the conference. We hope that this conference will be a productive and memorable
experience for everyone involved.

We strongly urge all students to engage in MUN and take full advantage of its benefits, regardless of
their prior experience. Our program values individual perspectives and encourages all participants to
contribute their unique ideas to the discourse. Through collaborative efforts, we aim to make a positive
impact on the world.
WITH WARM REGARDS

Dewang Tak Aditya Mantri Abhyuday Saksena

(Chairperson) (Vice-Chairperson) (Rapporteur)
takdewang7@gmail.com mantriaditya2301@gmail.com abhyuday.saksena06@gmail.com
 ABOUT UN
The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945 after the Second World War by 51
countries committed to maintaining international peace and security, developing friendly relations
among nations and promoting social progress, better living standards and human rights. The UN has 4
main purposes:
• To keep peace throughout the world;
• To develop friendly relations among nations
• To help nations work together to improve the lives of poor people, to conquer hunger, disease and
illiteracy, and to encourage respect for each other's rights and freedoms;
To be a Centre for harmonizing
the actions of nations to achieve
these goals The work of the
United Nations reaches every
corner of the globe. Although
best known for peace keeping,
peace building, conflict
prevention and humanitarian
assistance, there are many other
ways the United Nations and its
System (specialized agencies,
funds and programs) affect our
lives and make the world a
better place.
The Organization works on a broad range of fundamental issues, from sustainable development,
environment and refugees protection, disaster relief, counter terrorism, disarmament and
nonproliferation, to promoting democracy, human rights, gender equality and the advancement of
women, governance, economic and social development and international health, clearing landmines,
expanding food production, and more, in order to achieve its goals and coordinate efforts for a safer
world for this and future generations.
 UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS
COUNCIL

Human Rights Council is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system that is
responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the world, as well
as investigating and making recommendations on cases of human rights violations. It is capable of
debating all thematic human rights issues and situations that arise throughout the year. It holds its
meetings at the United Nations Office in Geneva.

The Council is made up of 47 United Nations Member States who

are elected by the UN General Assembly. The Human Rights Council
succeeded the former United Nations Commission on Human Rights.
The High Commissioner for Human Rights and her Office (OHCHR)
are part of the Secretariat structure, reporting to the UN Secretary
General. The OHCHR collaborates closely with governments and
civil society partners worldwide to ensure that international human
rights standards are implemented on the ground, as well as to
promote human rights education and international law.

Although the OHCHR is a separate entity from the Council, it supports the work of the Council as well
as the treaty-monitoring bodies that examine states' compliance with the international human rights
treaties to which they have signed.
The Commission's main themes were: the right to self-determination; racism; the right to development;
the question of human rights violations in occupied Arab territories, including Palestine; the question of
human rights and fundamental freedoms violations anywhere in the world; economic, social, and
cultural rights; civil and political rights, including torture and detention, disappearances, and summary
executions, freedom of expression, judicial independence, impunity, and religious intolerance;
indigenous issues; human rights promotion and protection, including the work of the Sub-Commission,
treaty bodies, and national institutions; and advisory services and technical cooperation in the field of
human rights.
 INTRODUCTION
The European refugee crisis, which began in 2015, continues to have a profound and enduring impact
on the region. Triggered by the influx of over one million refugees and migrants primarily from war-
torn countries like Syria, Iraq, and Afghanistan, this crisis presented significant challenges for
European governments. The immediate task of providing shelter, food, and medical assistance was
daunting, revealing the limitations of the European Union's common asylum system and underscoring
the need for a more unified and coordinated approach to managing such crises.
According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Europe was home to
over 4.7 million refugees and asylum-seekers by the end of 2020. The majority of these individuals
originated from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. Additionally, more than 700,000 stateless people in
Europe required protection and assistance, emphasizing the scale of the humanitarian challenge.
Countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain, which served as primary entry points, have shouldered the
heaviest burden. Their struggle to meet the needs of arrivals has strained resources and infrastructure,
making it challenging to provide accommodation, healthcare, and education to such a large number of
refugees and migrants. Overcrowded camps and reception centers have created dire living conditions
for those seeking refuge.
Beyond the immediate humanitarian implications, the European refugee crisis has also had a profound
impact on the social and political landscape. The significant influx of refugees and migrants has fueled
political debates and increased polarization within European societies. Anti-immigrant sentiment has
risen in some regions, leading to the emergence of populist and far-right movements. This polarization
has tested the unity and cohesion of the European Union.
While there has been a decrease in the number of arrivals in recent years, the challenges persist,
exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has heightened the vulnerability of refugees
and migrants living in crowded accommodations, exposing them to greater health risks. Limited access
to healthcare and essential services has further exacerbated their plight.
Addressing the European refugee crisis requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The
UNHCR, along with European governments and other stakeholders, must develop sustainable solutions
that prioritize the well-being and protection of refugees and migrants. This involves equitable
distribution of responsibility among member states, enhancing integration processes, fostering social
cohesion, and combating xenophobia and discrimination.
In summary, the European refugee crisis remains a pressing humanitarian challenge. It is vital to work
towards a comprehensive and coordinated approach, guided by principles of humanity and international
cooperation. By finding sustainable resolutions, Europe can ensure the well-being and dignity of those
seeking refuge while preserving the unity and values of the continent.
 HISTORICAL CONTEXT
The current refugee crisis in Europe has deep roots in history, and its origins can be traced back to
several decades. The conflicts, wars, and political instability that have plagued the Middle East and
North Africa region for many years have forced millions of people to flee their homes in search of
safety.

The Syrian conflict, which began in 2011, has been one of the primary drivers of the European refugee
crisis. Since the conflict began, over 6 million Syrians have been internally displaced, while more than
5.5 million have sought refuge in neighboring countries, such as Turkey, Jordan, and Lebanon.
However, with the ongoing conflict and the protracted nature of displacement, many Syrians have
continued to seek refuge elsewhere, including in Europe.

The European refugee crisis also has its

roots in the broader global context of
displacement and migration. Forced
displacement is not a new phenomenon, and
throughout history, people have been forced
to flee their homes due to conflict,
persecution, or natural disasters.
However, the current scale and complexity
of displacement are unprecedented.

In recent years, conflicts and crises in other

regions of the world have also contributed to
the global refugee crisis. For example, the
ongoing conflict in Yemen has resulted in
one of the world's largest humanitarian
crises, with over 20 million people in need
of assistance. The crisis in Myanmar has
also led to the displacement of over 1
million Rohingya refugees.

The European refugee crisis has been characterized by a lack of a coordinated response among
European governments, leading to significant challenges in providing adequate support and protection
to refugees and migrants. The crisis has also exposed the limitations of the EU's common asylum
system, which has struggled to cope with the scale and complexity of the crisis.
 CURRENT SITUATION
Firstly, there is an urgent need for a coordinated and comprehensive response from European
governments to the crisis. The lack of a coordinated approach has resulted in significant challenges in
providing adequate support and protection to refugees and migrants. Some countries have adopted
restrictive policies and closed their borders, leaving refugees and migrants stranded in precarious
situations.
Secondly, there is a significant humanitarian crisis unfolding in the Mediterranean, with thousands of
refugees and migrants risking their lives every year to cross the sea in search of safety and protection.
According to the UNHCR, over 1,400 people have died or gone missing while attempting to cross the
Mediterranean in 2021 alone.
Thirdly, the COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated the challenges faced by refugees and
migrants, particularly those living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions in refugee camps and
detention centers. The pandemic has also resulted in the closure of borders and a reduction in
resettlement and relocation programs, leaving many refugees and migrants in limbo.
Fourthly, there is a significant gap
between the needs of refugees and
migrants and the support and
assistance they receive. Many
refugees and migrants face
significant barriers to accessing
basic services such as healthcare,
education, and employment,
leading to long-term social and
economic exclusion.
Finally, the crisis has also led to a
rise in anti-immigrant sentiment and far-right politics in many parts of Europe, leading to increased
discrimination, hostility, and violence towards refugees and migrants.
In conclusion, the current situation in Europe regarding the refugee crisis is complex and multifaceted,
with several ongoing challenges and issues that require urgent attention. It is essential for European
governments to adopt a coordinated and comprehensive approach to address the crisis, to ensure that
the rights of refugees and migrants are respected and protected, and to find sustainable solutions that
promote dignity, respect, and human rights for all.
 CAUSES OF REFUGEES AND TOPICS
TO DISSCUS UPON
1) The Syrian refugee crisis refers to the mass
displacement of millions of Syrians who have
been forced to flee their homes due to the ongoing
conflict in Syria. It began in 2011 when protests
against the government escalated into a full-scale
civil war. The crisis has resulted in immense
human suffering, with millions of Syrians seeking
refuge in neighboring countries and beyond.

The conflict has caused widespread devastation,

including the destruction of infrastructure, loss of
lives, and the displacement of a significant portion of the Syrian population. Many refugees have
experienced violence, trauma, and the loss of loved ones. The crisis has put immense pressure on
neighboring countries, such as Turkey, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt, as they have received a large
influx of refugees.

The international community has responded to the crisis through humanitarian aid, financial assistance,
and resettlement programs. However, the scale of the crisis has presented significant challenges, and
efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict have been complex and prolonged.

The Syrian refugee crisis continues to have far-reaching consequences, including strained resources,
socio-economic challenges, and the need for long-term support and integration for refugees in host
countries. It highlights the importance of international cooperation, humanitarian assistance, and
addressing the root causes of conflicts to prevent similar crises in the future.

2) The Belarusian migration crisis refers to the

situation that emerged in 2021 when Belarusian
authorities allegedly facilitated the movement of
migrants from the Middle East and Africa into the
European Union (EU). This crisis unfolded amidst
strained relations between Belarus and the EU
following the disputed presidential election in
Belarus in 2020 and the subsequent crackdown on
political dissent.

The Belarusian government, led by President

Alexander Lukashenko, has been accused of
actively encouraging and enabling migrants, primarily from countries like Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan,
to enter Belarus. It is believed that these migrants are then guided to the borders of EU member states,
particularly Lithuania, Latvia, and Poland. This tactic has been viewed as a form of political leverage
or retaliation against the EU's sanctions and criticism of Lukashenko's regime.

The situation has put significant strain on the affected EU countries, as they have had to deal with an
unprecedented influx of migrants seeking asylum. These countries have faced challenges in providing
humanitarian assistance, managing border security, and processing asylum applications. There have
also been reports of human rights abuses and mistreatment of migrants by Belarusian authorities.

The Belarusian migration crisis has prompted the EU and its member states to implement measures
aimed at addressing the situation, including increasing border security, providing support to affected
countries, and exploring diplomatic and economic sanctions against Belarus. Discussions on finding a
resolution to the crisis continue at both the regional and international levels.

3) The Rohingya refugee crisis refers to the mass exodus of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar
(formerly Burma) to neighboring countries, primarily Bangladesh, due to widespread persecution and
violence against the Rohingya ethnic minority. The crisis gained international attention in 2017,
although the Rohingya people have faced discrimination and marginalization in Myanmar for decades.

The Rohingya, an ethnic minority group

concentrated in Myanmar's Rakhine State,
have been subjected to severe human rights
abuses, including violence, killings, sexual
assault, and the destruction of their homes
and villages. The Myanmar government has
been accused of ethnic cleansing and
genocide against the Rohingya population,
which has led to a significant number of
people fleeing their homes in search of
safety and protection.

The majority of Rohingya refugees have

sought shelter in Bangladesh, with hundreds of thousands living in overcrowded refugee camps, such
as Cox's Bazar, which has become one of the world's largest refugee settlements. The conditions in
these camps are challenging, with limited access to basic necessities, healthcare, and education. The
Rohingya refugees also face the risk of natural disasters, human trafficking, and exploitation.

The international community has responded to the Rohingya crisis by providing humanitarian aid,
supporting the host countries, and calling for accountability and justice for the atrocities committed
against the Rohingya people. Efforts to find a sustainable solution and facilitate the safe and voluntary
return of Rohingya refugees to Myanmar have been challenging, as the root causes of the crisis,
including discrimination and lack of citizenship rights, remain unaddressed.

The Rohingya refugee crisis highlights the urgent need for international cooperation, human rights
protection, and long-term solutions to address the plight of the Rohingya people. It underscores the
importance of addressing the underlying issues of discrimination and ensuring the protection and rights
of all individuals, regardless of their ethnicity or religion.
4) The Middle Eastern Cold War describes the geopolitical rivalry and proxy conflicts that have
taken place in the Middle East, particularly during the latter half of the 20th century. It draws parallels
to the global Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, although the dynamics and
actors involved in the Middle East were unique.

The Middle Eastern Cold War can be attributed to various factors, including regional power struggles,
ideological differences, and the competing interests of external powers in the region. One significant
aspect was the rivalry between two major Middle Eastern powers, Iran and Saudi Arabia, which
represented competing visions of Islam and sought to exert influence over the region.

The Iranian Revolution in 1979, which transformed Iran into an Islamic republic under Ayatollah
Khomeini, had a profound impact on regional dynamics. Iran emerged as a champion of revolutionary
Islam and sought to export its ideology, which challenged the existing political order and posed a threat
to the conservative monarchies in the Gulf region, particularly Saudi Arabia.

To counter Iran's influence, Saudi Arabia aligned itself with

other conservative Sunni Muslim states and supported various
Sunni Islamist groups across the Middle East. This rivalry
played out through a series of proxy conflicts, such as the Iran-
Iraq War (1980-1988), where Iraq, under Saddam Hussein,
received support from Saudi Arabia and other Arab states, while
Iran received backing from Syria and other Shia allies.

The Middle Eastern Cold War also involved external powers,

primarily the United States and the Soviet Union, who provided
support to different factions and governments in the region to
advance their own interests. The U.S. sought to maintain its
influence and secure access to oil resources, while the Soviet
Union aimed to expand its sphere of influence and counter
American influence.

The consequences of the Middle Eastern Cold War have been far-reaching and continue to shape the
region's dynamics today. It has fueled sectarian tensions, exacerbated conflicts, and contributed to the
rise of extremist groups. The rivalry between Iran and Saudi Arabia remains a significant factor in the
region's geopolitical landscape, with ongoing proxy conflicts and competition for influence in countries
like Syria, Yemen, and Lebanon.

5) The situation in Afghanistan, where the Taliban has regained control of the country, is a complex
and evolving crisis. After the withdrawal of international forces from Afghanistan, the Taliban
launched a major offensive and rapidly captured significant territory, eventually culminating in the
takeover of Kabul, the capital city, in August 2021.

The Taliban is an Islamist militant group that emerged in the 1990s and previously ruled Afghanistan
from 1996 to 2001. During their previous regime, they implemented a strict interpretation of Islamic
law, which resulted in severe human rights abuses, particularly against women, minorities, and those
who opposed their rule.
The Taliban's takeover has raised concerns about the fate of human rights, democracy, and stability in
Afghanistan. Many Afghans, especially those who have worked with the government or international
organizations, fear for their safety and have attempted to flee the country. The situation has also
triggered a significant humanitarian crisis, with millions of Afghans in need of assistance.

The international community, including the United

Nations and various countries, has expressed deep
concern about the situation and called for the
protection of human rights and the establishment of
an inclusive government in Afghanistan. Efforts are
underway to provide humanitarian aid and support to
Afghan refugees who have fled to neighboring
countries.

The Taliban's return to power has significant

implications for regional security and global counterterrorism efforts. There are concerns about
Afghanistan becoming a safe haven for terrorist organizations, as it was during the Taliban's previous
rule. The crisis also poses challenges to neighboring countries and the broader international community
in managing the flow of refugees and addressing potential security threats.

The situation in Afghanistan remains fluid, and the long-term implications and outcomes are uncertain.
International diplomatic efforts continue to seek a peaceful and inclusive resolution, while Afghan
factions, regional powers, and the Taliban engage in negotiations and discussions to establish a stable
and sustainable government that respects human rights and addresses the concerns of the Afghan
people.

6) The Sudan-South Sudan conflict refers to the ongoing tensions and disputes between the
neighboring countries of Sudan and South Sudan. The conflict has its roots in a long history of
political, ethnic, and territorial disputes that emerged even before South Sudan gained independence
from Sudan in 2011.

One of the primary sources of conflict is the issue of oil-rich border regions, particularly Abyei and
areas along the Sudan-South Sudan border. The exact demarcation of the border was not fully resolved
during the separation process, leading to disagreements over oil revenues, citizenship, and territorial
control. The conflict has often involved clashes between government forces, rebel groups, and militias,
leading to civilian casualties, displacement, and humanitarian crises.

In recent years, there have been efforts to improve relations and address the outstanding issues between
the two countries. In 2018, Sudan and South Sudan signed a peace agreement, known as the Khartoum
Peace Agreement, which aimed to resolve outstanding disputes and promote cooperation. The
agreement addressed issues such as border demarcation, oil revenues, and security cooperation.
However, challenges and sporadic violence persist.
The border regions remain disputed, and sporadic
clashes between armed groups and government forces
continue to occur. There are also ongoing concerns
about governance, corruption, and the delivery of basic
services in both Sudan and South Sudan.

The international community, including regional

organizations such as the African Union, has been
actively involved in mediation efforts and providing
support for peacebuilding initiatives. Efforts to
promote dialogue, reconciliation, and the
implementation of the peace agreement continue to be
essential for long-term stability and the well-being of
the people in both Sudan and South Sudan.

7) The Russia-Ukraine conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, including a

displacement of people and a flow of refugees. The conflict began in 2014 when Russia annexed
Crimea, a region previously belonging to Ukraine. Subsequently, pro-Russian separatist movements
emerged in eastern Ukraine, leading to a prolonged armed conflict.

As a result of the conflict, many Ukrainians have been internally displaced within Ukraine, seeking
safety in other regions of the country. Additionally, a significant number of people have fled to
neighboring countries, primarily Belarus, Poland, and Romania, as well as other European nations.
These individuals are considered refugees or internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have left their
homes due to the ongoing violence and insecurity.

The displacement of people has created numerous challenges,

including the need for humanitarian assistance, shelter,
healthcare, and basic necessities. The host countries have
faced the burden of accommodating and supporting the influx
of refugees and IDPs, which has strained resources and
infrastructure.

The international community, including humanitarian

organizations and neighboring countries, has provided
assistance to those affected by the conflict. Efforts have been
made to address the needs of refugees and IDPs, provide
protection, and facilitate their integration or return when
conditions allow.
8) Greek refugee crisis, Greece has been a major
entry point for refugees and migrants attempting to
enter Europe, particularly since the start of the
Syrian civil war in 2011. The situation in Greece
has been exacerbated by the closure of borders by
other European countries, leaving thousands of
refugees and migrants stranded in Greece. This has
created significant challenges for the Greek
government and for humanitarian organizations
working in the region.
The Greek refugee crisis has been ongoing for over a decade and has seen over one million refugees
and migrants arrive in Greece since 2015 alone. The majority of refugees and migrants arrive on the
Aegean islands of Lesbos, Chios, Samos, and Kos, where they are often held in overcrowded and
unsanitary conditions in temporary reception centers. The situation has been further complicated by
political tensions within Greece, with some political parties and movements promoting anti-immigrant
and nationalist agendas. This has led to increased social tensions and xenophobic attacks on refugees
and migrants.

9) Italian refugee crisis, Italy has also been a significant entry point for refugees and migrants
attempting to enter Europe, particularly from North Africa. The situation has been complicated by
political tensions within Italy, with some political parties and movements promoting anti-immigrant
and nationalist agendas. The Italian government has also faced criticism for its handling of the refugee
crisis, including allegations of human rights violations and inadequate support for refugees and
migrants.
The Italian refugee crisis has seen over half a
million refugees and migrants arrive in Italy since
2013. The majority of refugees and migrants arrive
by sea, often making the perilous journey across
the Mediterranean in overcrowded and unsafe
boats. Italy has struggled to cope with the influx of
refugees and migrants, leading to significant social
and political tensions within the country. The
situation has also created challenges for other
European countries, with Italy calling for greater support from its EU partners.
10) Calais refugee crisis, The French town of Calais has been a major transit point for refugees and
migrants attempting to enter the UK via the Channel Tunnel. The situation in Calais has been
characterized by overcrowding, poor living conditions, and violence, leading to significant challenges
for both the refugees and migrants living in the town and for local authorities and humanitarian
organizations trying to provide support.
The Calais refugee crisis has seen
thousands of refugees and migrants living
in squalid conditions in makeshift camps in
and around the town. The situation has
been complicated by political tensions
between France and the UK, with the UK
government refusing to accept
responsibility for the refugees and migrants
attempting to enter the country. The
situation has also been exacerbated by the
closure of borders by other European
countries, leaving refugees and migrants
with limited options for onward travel.

ISSUES TO CONSIDER
There are several issues to consider when addressing the European refugee crisis in the UNHRC
committee, including:
1. Protection and Assistance: Providing protection and assistance to refugees and migrants is crucial
in addressing the crisis. This includes ensuring access to basic services such as healthcare, education,
and employment, as well as providing adequate shelter, food, and water. It is also important to provide
psychosocial support to refugees and migrants who have experienced trauma and displacement.
2. Legal Frameworks: It is essential to ensure that the rights of refugees and migrants are respected
and protected, and that they have access to legal frameworks to seek asylum and protection. The
UNHRC committee can explore ways to improve the EU's common asylum system and ensure that it
provides adequate protection and support to refugees and migrants.
3. Resettlement and Relocation: Resettlement and relocation programs can provide refugees and
migrants with safe and legal pathways to protection and support. The UNHRC committee can explore
ways to increase the number of resettlement and relocation places and ensure that they are allocated
fairly and transparently.
4. Addressing Root Causes: Addressing the root causes of displacement and migration, including
conflict, political instability, and poverty, is crucial in addressing the European refugee crisis. The
UNHRC committee can explore ways to promote peace, stability, and development in conflict-affected
regions and address the social and economic factors driving migration.
5. Anti-Immigrant Sentiment: The rise in anti-immigrant sentiment and far-right politics is a
significant challenge that must be addressed. The UNHRC committee can explore ways to counter
xenophobia and discrimination towards refugees and migrants and promote greater tolerance and social
cohesion.
6. COVID-19 Pandemic: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the challenges faced by refugees
and migrants, particularly in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. The UNHRC committee can
explore ways to ensure that refugees and migrants have access to COVID-19 vaccines and essential
healthcare, as well as supporting efforts to prevent the spread of the virus in refugee camps and
detention centers.

PAST UN ACTIONS
The UN has taken several actions related to the EUROPEAN REFUGEE CRISIS including:
1. The Global Compact on Refugees:
The Global Compact on Refugees was adopted by the UN General Assembly in 2018 as a comprehensive
framework for refugee protection and support. The compact aims to promote international cooperation and
burden-sharing in addressing refugee crises, providing support to host communities, and creating durable
solutions for refugees. It outlines a set of principles and commitments for countries to follow in managing
refugee situations, such as ensuring that refugees have access to education and employment opportunities,
protecting their rights and safety, and providing adequate funding and resources for refugee support programs.

2. The UNHCR's Operation Mediterranean:

The UNHCR launched Operation Mediterranean in
2015 to provide protection and assistance to refugees
and migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea. The
operation aims to rescue refugees and migrants at sea,
provide them with medical and psychosocial support,
and assist with their relocation and resettlement. The
operation involves a coordinated effort between UN
agencies, NGOs, and European governments to provide
humanitarian aid to refugees and migrants in transit.
3. The EU-Turkey Statement:
The EU and Turkey reached an agreement in 2016 to manage the flow of refugees and migrants from Turkey to
Europe. The agreement aims to provide support to Turkey in hosting refugees and migrants, as well as returning
irregular migrants to Turkey from Greece. In exchange for Turkey's assistance in managing the refugee crisis,
the EU committed to providing funding and support to Turkey for refugee resettlement and integration
programs.
4. The EU Resettlement Framework:
The EU adopted a resettlement framework in 2015 to provide safe and legal pathways for refugees to enter
Europe. The framework aims to resettle refugees from conflict-affected regions, providing them with protection
and support in Europe. The EU provides funding and support to countries that accept resettled refugees, as well
as providing assistance with their integration and resettlement.
5. The UNHCR's Global Strategy:
The UNHCR launched its Global Strategy in 2014, which aims to provide a comprehensive response to the
global refugee crisis. The strategy focuses on providing protection and assistance to refugees and migrants,
addressing the root causes of displacement, and promoting durable solutions for refugees. It also calls for
greater international cooperation and burden-sharing in managing refugee crises and provides a framework for
UN agencies and other organizations to work together in responding to the refugee crisis.
Overall, these actions taken by the UN and EU provide important frameworks and programs for addressing the
European refugee crisis. However, there is still a need for greater international cooperation and support in
providing protection and assistance to refugees and migrants, addressing the root causes of displacement, and
creating durable solutions for refugees.

CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the European refugee crisis is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires a
comprehensive and coordinated approach. The crisis has highlighted the need for greater international
cooperation and solidarity in addressing displacement and migration challenges.

It is essential to address the root causes of displacement, including conflict, political instability, and
poverty, and to provide adequate protection and assistance to refugees and migrants. This requires a
long-term commitment to supporting refugees and host communities, including through initiatives such
as education, livelihoods, and social integration programs.
It is also crucial to ensure that the rights of refugees and migrants are respected and protected, and to
address the rising anti-immigrant sentiment and far-right politics that have emerged in response to the
crisis. This requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying social and economic
factors driving these trends.

Finally, the COVID-19

pandemic has further
exacerbated the challenges
faced by refugees and
migrants, highlighting the
urgent need for more
coordinated and effective
responses to global crises.
As such, it is imperative for
the UNHRC and
international community to
work together to find
sustainable solutions that
promote dignity, respect,
and human rights for all.
 RELIABLE DATA AND SOURCES
Using reliable sources of information is crucial for constructing effective arguments and policies in
MUN. The Executive Board only accepts data and information from credible, reliable, and relevant
sources, such as academic journals, government publications, NGO reports, and expert-authored books.
Delegates should keep a record of their sources and cite them whenever possible. Critically evaluating
sources ensures the accuracy of presented information and promotes informed solutions to discussed
issues.

We will accept data and information from the following sources during Committee Sessions
1) UN
https://www.un.org/en/
https://www.unicef.org/
https://www.ohchr.org/en/ohchr_homepage
https://www.unhcr.org/en-in/

2) OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITES

https://www.state.gov/
https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/

3) NEWS SOURCES
https://www.bbc.com/
https://www.reuters.com/
https://aljazeera.com
This list is not exhaustive and there are many other sources of reliable information available for MUN
research. It's important to exercise discernment when selecting sources, taking into account factors such
as credibility, relevance, and bias. Additionally, when using information from sources, it's essential to
properly cite and acknowledge the original source
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