Bring out the mandate and core functions of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Explain its role in strengthening the international refugee protection regime
Kartavya Desk Staff
Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate
Topic: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate
Q4. Bring out the mandate and core functions of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. Explain its role in strengthening the international refugee protection regime. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: TH
Why the question Rising global displacement, stress on multilateral institutions, and debates on the effectiveness of international humanitarian governance. Key Demand of the question The question requires explaining the legal mandate and functional responsibilities of UNHCR, followed by showing how these functions collectively strengthen the international refugee protection regime beyond mere relief delivery. Structure of the Answer Introduction Briefly situate the issue of forced displacement globally and introduce UNHCR as the principal UN agency mandated to protect refugees and uphold international refugee law. Body Mandate and core functions of UNHCR: Suggest discussion on protection mandate, legal supervision, humanitarian assistance, durable solutions, and vulnerable group protection. Role in strengthening the international refugee protection regime: Suggest discussion on norm-building, coordination and burden-sharing, advocacy and accountability, capacity-building of states, and linking humanitarian action with development. Conclusion Conclude by highlighting UNHCR’s continuing relevance for global refugee governance and the need for sustained international cooperation to address emerging displacement challenges.
Why the question
Rising global displacement, stress on multilateral institutions, and debates on the effectiveness of international humanitarian governance.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the legal mandate and functional responsibilities of UNHCR, followed by showing how these functions collectively strengthen the international refugee protection regime beyond mere relief delivery.
Structure of the Answer
Introduction Briefly situate the issue of forced displacement globally and introduce UNHCR as the principal UN agency mandated to protect refugees and uphold international refugee law.
• Mandate and core functions of UNHCR: Suggest discussion on protection mandate, legal supervision, humanitarian assistance, durable solutions, and vulnerable group protection.
• Role in strengthening the international refugee protection regime: Suggest discussion on norm-building, coordination and burden-sharing, advocacy and accountability, capacity-building of states, and linking humanitarian action with development.
Conclusion Conclude by highlighting UNHCR’s continuing relevance for global refugee governance and the need for sustained international cooperation to address emerging displacement challenges.