Why in news?
In August 2025 the UNHCR suspended the repatriation of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees from India after some returnees were detained in Sri Lanka for alleged immigration violations. The move drew attention to the UN agency’s role and powers.
What is UNHCR?
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is a UN agency established in 1950 to protect and support refugees, stateless persons and internally displaced people worldwide. Its mission is to ensure that everyone forced to flee has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge.
Mandate and functions
- Protection: Upholds the principle of non‑refoulement, meaning refugees should not be sent back to a place where they face danger.
- Humanitarian assistance: Provides shelter, food, health care and education to displaced communities.
- Durable solutions: Works toward voluntary repatriation, local integration or third‑country resettlement.
- Advocacy: Partners with governments to promote refugee rights and fair asylum procedures.
- Statelessness reduction: Leads international efforts to eliminate statelessness by helping people acquire nationality.
Organisation
- Creation: The UN General Assembly created UNHCR in 1950 following World War II. The agency began work in 1951 with an initial three‑year mandate, later extended indefinitely.
- Leadership: The UN High Commissioner for Refugees heads the agency and is elected by the General Assembly. Filippo Grandi of Italy has held the post since 2016.
- Structure: A 100‑member Executive Committee provides policy guidance, while a secretariat led by the High Commissioner manages regional and field offices. Funding comes entirely from voluntary contributions by governments, private donors and organisations.
By suspending repatriation, the UNHCR signalled that it remains vigilant about the safety of refugees returning to their home countries.