What is refugee resettlement and what is UNHCR’s role?

Many refugees cannot go home because of conflict, war and persecution. Many also live in perilous situations or have specific needs that cannot be addressed in the country where they have sought protection. In such circumstances, @UNHCR, helps resettle refugees to another country. This process is called resettlement – the transfer of refugees from an asylum country to another State that has agreed to admit them and ultimately grant them permanent settlement. Resettlement States provide the refugee with legal and physical protection, including access to civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights similar to those enjoyed by nationals.

Resettlement is a life-changing experience. It is both challenging and rewarding. Refugees are often resettled to a country where the society, language and culture are completely different and new to them. Providing for their effective reception and integration is beneficial for both the resettled refugee and the receiving country. Governments and non-governmental organization partners provide services to facilitate integration, such as cultural orientation, language and vocational training, as well as programmes to promote access to education and employment.

In 2021, over 1.4 million refugees currently residing in 62 host countries will be in need of resettlement. With one per cent of humanity now displaced – the overwhelming majority hosted in developing regions facing their own challenges – we need countries to do more and help us find safe homes for those whose lives depend on it.