The application of the Cartagena Declaration on Refugees to Venezuelans in Brazil: An analysis of the decision-making process by the National Committee for Refugees

Abstract

Although the outflow of Venezuelan nationals represents one of the greatest challenges which has affected South America so far, the Brazilian National Committee for Refugees (CONARE) took over 3 years to decide whether or not to apply the Cartagena Declaration, progressively demonstrating unwillingness to provide international protection to Venezuelans and developing migratory routes as alternatives. As the main decision-making court in Brazil for asylum claims, this study looks at the route followed by CONARE to come to a decision and its possible consequences for asylum seekers. Although CONARE did apply the Cartagena Declaration in asylum claims made by Venezuelans, it was regarded as subsidiary to the 1951 Convention. Consequently, the committee decided not to apply a prima facie recognition, and demonstrated deep concern to asylum seekers’ criminal background. This investigation uses primary sources, such as official documents and field memories, and secondary sources, such as reports by other researchers and organizations.