Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees: Global compact on refugees

August 2018

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Summary

On 17 December 2018, the United Nations General Assembly affirmed the Global Compact on Refugees after extensive consultations led by UNHCR. This framework aims for more predictable and equitable responsibility-sharing, recognizing the need for international cooperation to achieve sustainable solutions for refugee situations. It provides a blueprint for supporting host communities and enabling refugees to lead productive lives.

The compact has four parts:

  1. An introduction outlining the background, principles, and objectives.
  2. The Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework (CRRF) from the New York Declaration.
  3. A Programme of Action detailing concrete measures, including burden-sharing arrangements, areas needing support, and tools for funding and partnerships.
  4. Arrangements for follow-up and review, primarily through the Global Refugee Forum every four years and annual high-level meetings.

The compact was developed through thematic discussions and formal consultations in 2017-2018, complemented by contributions from UN Member States and stakeholders. It aims to transform global responses to refugee situations, benefiting both refugees and host communities.