International Refugee Organization

Abstract

At its fifth session, held in Geneva from January 20 to 31, 1948, the Preparatory Commission of the International Refugee Organization made three major decisions on policy. The first of these decisions was designed to limit the number of refugees and displaced persons eligible for resettlement by setting February 1, 1948 as the date after which no refugees could be accepted for care and maintenance by PCIRO. Final action on this proposal was to be taken by the General Council of IRO, which would come into being following ratification of the IRO Constitution by two more Members of the United Nations. These ratifications were expected early in 1948; until they were deposited the commission adopted a resolution limiting to hardship cases new admissions to care and maintenance. This action was made necessary by financial limitations, which made it impossible for the Organization to provide help for an indefinite period of time for all persons who were or might become eligible for aid.