Print Friendy PageUNHCR | Washington Regional Office About the Caribbean UnitWhat are the main goals of UNHCR in the Caribbean, and what services does the Caribbean Unit provide?UNHCR’s primary goal in the Caribbean is to promote safeguards to asylum by assisting and advising states on mixed migration challenges and refugee protection. We seek to promote the well-being of refugees through material, social, and legal assistance. Moreover, we assist refugees to find durable solutions to their plight, if possible by returning home voluntarily once the situation that prompted their flight has been resolved. When return home is not possible, UNHCR assists refugees to integrate in their host countries or resettle permanently in third countries. In the Caribbean context, refugees can be difficult to identify since they often travel in mixed migratory movements amongst larger groups of migrants. In the Caribbean, UNHCR works with governments to help them respond appropriately to refugee and/or mixed migratory scenarios that they face. UNHCR provides training for immigration and other government officials who come into direct contact with asylum seekers and refugees. UNHCR also offers technical advice to help states develop national legislation and efficient asylum systems. UNHCR considers that helping refugees and finding the best solutions to their plight is a cooperative effort shared between states, UNHCR, and civil society partners, in consultation with the refugee families – the men, women, and children – who are themselves affected. |