Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement

Definition

The Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement are a set of international standards designed to protect the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and provide a framework for their assistance. They emphasize that IDPs have the same rights as other citizens and outline the responsibilities of states and other actors in ensuring their protection and assistance during displacement situations, thus connecting closely with the definitions and legal status of refugees, asylum seekers, and IDPs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Guiding Principles were developed in 1998 by the UN to address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of IDPs.
2. They outline the rights of IDPs during all phases of displacement, including protection from arbitrary displacement and access to humanitarian assistance.
3. States have a primary responsibility for protecting IDPs within their territories, including ensuring their safety and security.
4. The principles stress the importance of participation of IDPs in decisions affecting their lives, emphasizing their agency in finding durable solutions.
5. Humanitarian organizations and other actors are also encouraged to adhere to these principles when providing assistance to IDPs.

Review Questions

• How do the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement define the responsibilities of states towards internally displaced persons?
  • The Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement clearly outline that states have a primary responsibility to protect and assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) within their territories. This includes ensuring their safety from arbitrary displacement, providing access to humanitarian aid, and facilitating their return or resettlement. States must also create legal frameworks that uphold the rights of IDPs, reflecting their commitment to international human rights standards.
• Discuss how the Guiding Principles address the unique challenges faced by internally displaced persons compared to refugees.
  • The Guiding Principles specifically focus on the context of internal displacement, highlighting challenges that may differ from those faced by refugees. Unlike refugees, who cross international borders and seek asylum in other countries, IDPs remain within their own country but face similar risks such as violence, loss of property, and lack of access to basic services. The principles underscore that IDPs retain the same rights as other citizens and emphasize state accountability for their protection, which is crucial given that IDPs often encounter legal and social barriers even within their own communities.
• Evaluate the impact of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement in shaping international responses to internal displacement crises.
  • The Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement have significantly influenced how international organizations and governments approach crises involving internally displaced persons. By providing a comprehensive framework for protecting IDP rights and outlining state responsibilities, they promote a more coordinated response among humanitarian actors. This has led to increased awareness and advocacy for policies aimed at preventing displacement and supporting durable solutions for IDPs. Their adoption has prompted states to develop national laws and strategies that align with these principles, ultimately enhancing the protection framework for those affected by internal displacement.

Related terms

Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs): Individuals who have been forced to flee their homes due to armed conflict, violence, human rights violations, or natural disasters but remain within the borders of their own country.

Refugees: People who are forced to flee their home country due to persecution, conflict, or violence and seek safety in another country.

Asylum Seekers: Individuals who seek international protection and refuge in another country due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.