The Role of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees

Abstract

This chapter describes the history and function of United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). It gives an overview of operational issues faced by UNHCR in armed conflict situations. The chapter also deals with challenges posed to the UNHCR mandate that have been identified by the Agenda for Protection. The UNHCR was established by the UN General Assembly in 1950. Under its mandate, UNHCR was established to provide international protection to refugees and to seek permanent (durable) solutions to refugee problems. In support of its core activities on behalf of refugees, UNHCR's Executive Committee and the UN General Assembly have authorized the organization's involvement with other groups. In relation to internallly displaced persons (IDPs), UNHCR responds more on an ad hoc basis, as they are not generally covered by its mandate. UNHCR has a global mandate to provide international protection to the world's refugees. Keywords: armed conflict situations; internallly displaced persons (IDPs); UN General Assembly; UNHCR; united nations high commissioner; world's refugees