Global Compact on Refugees

Definition

The Global Compact on Refugees is a UN-led framework designed to improve the international response to refugee situations. It aims to foster international cooperation, enhance the quality of assistance provided to refugees, and ensure that host countries receive adequate support. This compact reflects a collective commitment to address the challenges faced by refugees and their host communities in a sustainable way.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Global Compact on Refugees was affirmed by the UN General Assembly in December 2018 as a way to enhance international collaboration on refugee issues.
2. It consists of four key objectives: easing the pressure on host countries, enhancing refugee self-reliance, expanding access to third-country solutions, and supporting conditions in countries of origin for safe return.
3. The compact emphasizes the importance of data collection and sharing to improve responses to refugee situations globally.
4. It encourages partnerships between governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to create comprehensive solutions for refugees.
5. The implementation of the compact is voluntary, allowing nations to tailor their commitments based on their capacities and contexts.

Review Questions

• What are the primary objectives outlined in the Global Compact on Refugees, and why are they significant?
  • The Global Compact on Refugees outlines four primary objectives: easing the pressure on host countries, enhancing refugee self-reliance, expanding access to third-country solutions, and supporting conditions in countries of origin for safe return. These objectives are significant because they promote a holistic approach to managing refugee crises by addressing both immediate needs and long-term solutions. By fostering cooperation among nations, the compact aims to distribute responsibilities more equitably and provide better outcomes for refugees.
• Analyze how the Global Compact on Refugees aims to facilitate international cooperation among different stakeholders.
  • The Global Compact on Refugees facilitates international cooperation by emphasizing partnerships among various stakeholders, including governments, international organizations like the UNHCR, civil society groups, and private sector entities. By encouraging collaboration and resource sharing, the compact seeks to create a multi-faceted response that addresses the needs of refugees while also supporting host communities. This approach is crucial for developing effective solutions that can lead to sustainable outcomes for both refugees and their hosts.
• Evaluate the impact of the Global Compact on Refugees on global policies regarding refugee protection and assistance.
  • The Global Compact on Refugees has the potential to significantly impact global policies by promoting a paradigm shift in how refugees are perceived and treated. By advocating for shared responsibilities among nations and emphasizing comprehensive solutions over mere humanitarian aid, it encourages countries to adopt more proactive and protective policies. As nations align their national frameworks with the principles of the compact, there may be greater consistency in refugee protection worldwide. This can lead to improved living conditions for refugees and more effective management of refugee flows across borders.

Related terms

Refugee: A person who has been forced to flee their country due to persecution, war, or violence and cannot return safely.

Asylum Seeker: An individual who seeks international protection and has applied for asylum in another country but whose claim has not yet been processed.

UNHCR: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, an agency responsible for protecting and supporting refugees and ensuring their rights are upheld.