Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Forum: General Assembly Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee Issue: Integration of Refugees into New Societies

Chair: Tiffany Chung Rapporteur: Michael Xu

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Table of Contents
Angola 3 Argentina .5 Brazil ..6 Germany ......7 Georgia .....8 India ...9 Iran ..........11 Israel ...........12 Japan 13 Kenya ......14 Kuwait ...............16 Libya ...........18 Malaysia ...............19 Morocco ........22 Palestine Liberation Organization (observer) ......23 Philippines ......25 Russia ............27 Saudi Arabia ...28 South Korea ....29 Switzerland ...................30 Syria ...............32 Turkey .......33 Uganda ..........35 Ukraine ....................36 United Kingdom .....................37

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Angola
Relevant Documents on Refugees in the U.N. The 1951 Refugee Convention, establishing the UNHCR, spells out that a refugee is someone who "owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his nationality, and is unable to, or owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself of the protection of that country." The 1967 protocol also stated and explained the status of refugees. Refugee Crisis in Angola. As recently as a decade ago, Angola remained primary source countries for refugees. The resumption of full-scale civil war in Angola in the latter half of 1998 not only halted the repatriation of Angolans from neighboring states, which was underway, but saw fresh movements out of that country. In December 1998 the United Nations estimated that about 330 000 Angolans were internally displaced and had registered 255 000 as refugees primarily in Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Congo-Brazzaville and Namibia. The number of monthly registrations of new Angolan refugees steadily increased from July 1998. Angola hosted about 12,100 refugees and 2,900 asylum seekers at year's end. The largest group of refugees was 11,400 from the Democratic Republic of Congo (Congo-Kinshasa), who mostly arrived in the 1970s. It is likely there were more refugees among the estimated 400,000 Congolese living in northern Angola, but there had never been a complete formal registration and births and deaths often went unrecorded. Steps to Reintegration. 1. Physical protection: UNHCR began but could not complete a comprehensive formal registration exercise of all refugees and asylum seekers in Angola, which it hoped to attempt again in 2008. 2. Freedom of Movement and Residence: Angola's 1994 Law on the Legal Regime of Foreigners granted foreigners freedom of movement and residence. 3. Right to earn a livelihood: Refugees can enjoy the protection of Angolan labor legislation, under the assistance of some organizations. 4. Public relief and education: Following UNHCR's 2005 handover of the schools in Viana refugee camp to Angola, both Angolan and refugee children attended them. Strategies by U.N. 1. Scaling up voluntary repatriation 2. Providing assistance packages to help former refugees reintegrate 3. Securing an alternative legal status that would allow them to continue to reside in countries of asylum. Cessation clauses are built into the 1951 Refugee Convention and the 1969 Organization of African Unity Refugee Convention. They allow refugee status to end once fundamental and durable changes have taken place in the country of origin and the circumstances that led to their flight no longer exist. That is the case in all three countries of origin, Angola, Rwanda and Liberian and UNHCR has recommended that cessation of refugee status 3

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

apply for Angolan refugees who fled the country as a result of the conflicts between 1961 and 2002; Liberian refugees who fled the civil wars between 1989 and 2003; and for Rwandan refugees who fled between 1959 and 1998.

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Argentina
Argentina is in full support to integrate refugees into our society and recognizes the integration of refugees into new societies as an urgent problem that needs to be addressed immediately. The root of the problem lies in security problems and resource burdens, which result in inadequate recognition of refugees. Host countries often blame refugees for the pre-existing social or economics problems, such as the rise of criminal activities and street prostitution. Although these claims may not be backed by substance, such claims can result in policies against local integration and local resentment towards refugees. In many cases, refugees live in camps that are unsafe and unsatisfactory, with few means to support or educate themselves. Refugees are often neglected by the local government and are not granted full asylum, refugee status, permanent residency and other human and civil rights. They bypass official assistance and find ways to self-settle amongst the local population. Argentina has been a member of UNHCRs Executive Committee since 1979 and it has demonstrated interest in protecting human rights and solving refugee issues. Argentina itself receives about 1,000 refugees from 35 different countries: Columbia, Peru, Cuba, Eastern European and African countries and has been making steady progress in handling refugee issues over the past decade. It expanded its refugee committee and adopted a more efficient procedure to handle refugee documents. In 2005, Argentinas Congress passed a law that provides a very solid framework for the full exercise of refugees rights. It guarantees the processing of asylum claims in a reasonable timeframe, facilitates access to documentation, education, health and employment. It has special provisions for refugee women, children and victims of violence. The adoption of the migration law recognizes the right to migrate and guarantees equal access to the public health and education system to all migrants regardless of their migratory status. It also multiplies the possibilities for migrants and persons of concern to be granted temporary and/or permanent right of legal residence in the country. Furthermore, since 2005, Argentina has coordinated a resettlement program for Columbian refugees with HIAS and UNHCR. The Argentine authorities issue legal documentation that allowed refugees to stay and work in Argentina immediately. In every city, refugee families are assisted by a teacher, a social worker and a psychologist to facilitate smoother integration process. Already, 101 refugees have been resettled in Argentina. All children are enrolled in school, and the majority of adults have integrated into the job market. Argentina will take on an active stance to integrate refugees into the international society. Argentina will cooperate with UNHCR and various NGOs to entitle refugees their basic rights, identity and welfare. This delegation will also devise a program to blend refugees into new societies and strive to eliminate discrimination and biases against refugees. Argentina urges all states to join her to advocate refugee rights and solve refugee issues. Argentina has proved that solving refugee problems is not difficult as long as there is support from UNHCR and NGOs. We strongly encourage all member states to distinguish all stereotypes on refugees and restore their entitled rights and freedom.

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Brazil
Although Brazil treated refugees to migrants in the period of World War II, and prevented non-European refugees to have find their asylum in Brazil in 1950s, they started to gradually accept the roles of refugees, and moreover, Brazil helped them a lot. And now, Brazil is one of the greatest country that has a big influence to UN and to the world. Brazil started to recognize refugees at the time period of 1990s, this act is called The 1997 Brazilian Refuges Act, which was made by the President in Brazil, Fernando Henrique Cardoso. President Cardoso stated, due to severe and generalized violation of human rights, he or she is compelled to leave his or her country of nationality to seek refuge in a different country. They gave refugees rights to enjoy the association and paid employment the Brazil. The results of this made more people to find asylum in Brazil, where they can enjoy life better compare to their previous shelter. Brazils 1997 Refugee Law welcomes people who is in danger, or wellfounded fear of persecution outside the country to seek asylum in Brazil. Brazil starts to offer people to come to their country and settle there. Providing them with support as much as they can, to let them feel safe and secure to live in there. In recent years, Brazil starts to actively support the UN and give assistance for the problems about refugees. For example, in 2010, Brazil has donate $3.2 million as the largest donation ever in the UNHCRs history. These funds helped refugees in counties such as Sri Lanka, Haiti, Ecuador, Iran, and Iraq. It granted refugees to have education and food. Brazil has one of the most advanced legislations in the world on refugees, has welcomed citizens of more than 50 countries, and is now becoming one of the biggest donors to UNHCR, Mr. Amorim noted. Brazil is now very well known for giving a big help to the UN. Brazils goal referring to the problem of refugees would be to strengthen their resettlement program, and also policies for the rights of the refugees. Brazil believes that every countries should try and give support to refugees, as the numbers are getting larger in some places. They should try to detect people in need for help and protection. And finally, Brazil wants countries to give equal rights to them, especially for refugee women to gain more recognition.

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Germany
Although German is not one of the most culturally diverse nations of Europe, nonetheless it is indeed a destination for foreign immigrants, from peoples of poor socioeconomic background who leave their origin in search for better opportunities. Here in Germany we are extremely tolerant of such immigration and since the post WW2 years, we have seen annual immigration figures steadily rising before reaching its peak in the 1990s. Germany has a ethnic breakdown of 80% ethnic German and the 20% remaining comprises mainly of Eastern European minorities comprising of a sizable Arab, Russian, Turkish and Polish population which makes up around 10% of the total population. Due to our long standing commitment and adherence to the Geneva conventions on Refugees, our homeland has been a popular destination and for this we have had to create more stringent regulations to prevent overpopulating which would create for us a shortage of resources and a reduction of economic opportunities. Regardless, we continue to be one of the most popular refugee destination for we recognize the maltreatment of individuals due to their race and religious orientation and would place their cause on the same priority level as that of political asylum seekers. Our political structure allows for smooth integration given a general understanding and basic proficiency in the German language, of course we leave the choice of language to newly settled to decided but otherwise-Germany has been renowned for its internationality and the prominence of several other major world languages for many years now and we hope that our judicial and political structure for immigration will be a model for other nations with similar situations so that the world will realize a greater level of political equality.

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Georgia
As a country with strongly relevant history, Georgia understands the dire situations most refugees, asylum seekers, IDPs and stateless people over the world experiences. Despite our current populations of official refugees stands relatively low, the high amount of IDPs gives us distinctive experience in assisting misplaced population in general. Base on the long standing cooperation between UNCHR, Georgia believes the essential point General Assembly should address is the matter of creating legal framework for nations worldwide to apply when integrating targeted populations in terms of, and not limited to, refugees into mainstream society, while securing their safety. As of now, the current population of concern within the border of Georgia is around 338.828 people, including refugees, asylum seekers, stateless people, and mostly IDPs. The Georgian government through the last decade had taken several strategies with sufficient result in improving the life of refugees from Chechen and IDPs generated from conflict between South Ossetia and Abkhazia. We believe it is vital to provide durable housing and accommodation to secure sufficient need for refugees. While promotion of a sustainable incomegenerating program for refugees to be self-sufficient is necessary as well. Community participation works are established, such as vocational training, teacher training, agricultural support and promotion of education for children. It is also notable some descendent of Chechen refugee had obtained university degree, while the so called refugee schools are closing as most children of refugee are merging into local schools to decrease social segregation and isolation. Legal documentation of refugees, including birth registration for infant and identity documents for adults are given. This becomes relatively efficient for refugees to support related government ministries in participating the process of improving their own lives. Meanwhile, aside the fact it is undeniable refugees need to be able to access basic medical care, we discover psychological care is especially needed as result shows many IDPs and refugees likewise suffer from decreasing mental health due to the constant unstable experience. Actions are also taken to assure security of the community from violence by establishing assessment among members of community and providing hotline services. A safe house is also created in some region to proved shelter for children, women, disadvantaged group and especially single handed mothers, for emergencies such as gender based violence. In conclusion, Georgia is interested in support positions that incorporate sufficient legal frameworks that not just improve the lifestyles of refugees and similar groups likewise (asylum seekers, IDPs, stateless people), but most importantly to integrate into mainstream society of host society as safely and efficiently as possible. We must stress actions taken that can potentially enhance situations such as social segregation, cultural conflict or even political strand are not desirable.

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

India
Refugees are intrinsically an integral part of society and have a lot to contribute as a legitimate social function. It is regrettable that in this day and age, relatively little marked progress has been seen in trying to reintegrate refugees into society. Often they are alienated, an unfortunate result of generally negative attitudes towards them. Even in developed nations like Germany and France, anti-immigration views, let alone them being accepted as legal members of society, permeate to the political level, with far-right groups garnering much support for vehemently opposing Muslim immigrants. In India, on the national level, there have been concerns relating to the unstable military conditions in the state of Assam, where clashes have caused an internal exodus of at least 400000 villagers. On the international level, millions of migrants flood in from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Afghanistan and Tibet, looking for sanctuary. It is Indias belief that national governments have the responsibility to directly intervene in the introduction of refugees residing in a new country, especially in terms of providing financial assistance and accommodating them. One must recognize that most refugees are from underprivileged backgrounds, and that a policy of immediate self-reliance will not bring any results. India has always worked closely with UNHCR, pointing towards accommodating refugees and the provision of better living standards. India has provided long-term solutions, like legal assistance and work visas/work permits. India will also continue her Community-based Development Program, an educational and developmental program championed by local NGOs and UNHCR. India will also do her best in seeking to repatriate those who wish to do so. Indias budget for refugee protection and related affairs was US$7.5m last year. The difficulties of these displaced individuals should be of concern. Bureaucratic red tape and problems in localizing must be dealt with. India would like to commend the UNHCRs work in her refugee camps as regards legal and financial assistance, and would like its work to be applied wherever possible. Free education is vital in any attempt in the reintegrating of displaced individuals (DIs). Particular emphasis must be directed to localization, especially when resettlement in their home countries will not be possible in the near future. On the other spectrum of the educational system, the general public should be advised of the legitimacy of refugees and public information sessions should be held to avoid any of the misconceptions about these DIs that may have arisen. It is important that local councils do their best in ensuring that both parties cooperate and jointly go forward towards harmonization. Notably, employers must understand their duty to maintain this fine balance by providing work opportunities for these DIs, or for the state to adopt voluntary employment. Also necessary is equality in societal regard. This must be administered in two fronts; firstly, against discrimination in employment and secondly, in gender equality. Women who are urban refugees are particularly likely to face challenges coping with the new environments; these problems are existent even here in India. There is a need to make sure that gender equality is promoted and not kept by the conservative societies that these refugees may have come from or have gone to. 9

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Ultimately, we would all like to see that every citizen of the world leads a happy and healthy life. If political crises and civil strife can be diminished, hierarchal dominions and dictatorial suppression abolished, then there would not have been refugees in the first place. However, this worldly peace is far beyond the limited scope of todays possibilities. Therefore, India would like to repeat the message to the international community that so long as these DIs have to face exodus, then nations with the economic means to accept them should accommodate them with open arms.

10

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Iran
Integration of refugees into the host country has always been a challenge for every state over the globe, in particular countries in Africa and the MiddleEast. At present, the Islamic Republic of Iran is one of the countries holding the most refugees. The recent social instability and economic downturn highlights the urgency for all nations to acknowledge and cope with the issue. The challenge is to assist refugees achieving integration, which is paramount to social harmony and the reestablishment of refugees. With the co-operation with the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, Pakistan and UNHCR, the Islamic Republic of Iran, has in the past participated, and is still continuing her participation in numerous projects assisting refugees, for example extending a health insurance scheme. With respect to UNHCR as a model, the Solutions Strategy for Afghan Refugees as a road map, the Islamic Republic of Iran points to durable, sustainable resolutions. Considering the long-term benefits for both the host country and refugees, we propose the following two measures: 1) facilitating and enhancing voluntary repatriation; 2) assistance in integrating. The Islamic Republic of Iran would like to emphasize that both measures are conducted in accord to the refugees will; the refugees are offered the freedom to decide. If one preferred voluntary repatriation, believing that there were better future prospects in their countries, we would respect it. At the same time, adequate assistance would be provided--- UNHCR would follow up and help them reintegrating into the society. Moreover, to facilitate voluntary repatriation successfully, nations ought to co-operate with each other, keeping up with the updated news regarding the conditions of refugees and countries themselves. On the other hand, for refugees continuing their stay, they would as well receive corresponding assistance from the host country. These measures would be aiming at establishing self-reliance and achieving social harmony. Firstly, basic needs are the fundamentals of quality life. In order to assist refugees integrating, basic needs must first be fulfilled, intensifying their social safety nets. The Islamic Republic of Iran asks member states to take initiative to improve community services and infrastructure, especially in the aspects of health and food security, which are in urgent need. Secondly, when tackling a problem regarding identity, a legal framework is crucial. We strongly support issuing working, or better, residence permits to refugees. Not only can this offer an acknowledgement of citizenship, but also enables them to have a chance of reestablishment. Last but not least, education is a pivotal component of integration. The Islamic Republic of Iran suggests offering education to refugees, to both adults and youngsters. Through education, tolerance could be promoted. In other words, difference in lifestyle and culture would be embraced. Moreover, the language barrier that impedes basic integration can be broken down too. All in all, the Islamic Republic of Iran totally understands refugees within a new country often experience difficult adjustment problems, and thus propose the mentioned measures to offer assistance, hoping to help them establish selfreliance and achieve social harmony.

11

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Israel
In 2008, there were 4,000 Sudanese refugees in Israel, 1,200 from Darfur and the remainder Christians from South Sudan, because of the Sudanese civil wars. Since 2006 60,000 people have crossed the Egyptian border and into Israel. Israel played a great part in helping to define refugees and their rights in the 1951 convention. Israel is currently making preparations to Syrian Alawi refugees. Because Israel is in a war-plagued region, many refugees seek asylum in Israel which has been causing an economic issue internally but also as a Jewish state it is important to keep the native majority. To control the inconsistent influx of refugees into the nation Israel enacted an Infiltration Law in 2011. Israel feels that it is important to help refugees in need however they should not be introduced into an unstable economy nor a country that isnt in a state to host them. Sometimes emergency asylum is needed and for those cases Israel agrees that it is of great importance for the refugees to have somewhere to go.

12

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Japan
Japan has played a key role in the leadership in the humanitarian field in the region and around the world, due to its approach to human security commonly being regarded as progressive, imbued with liberal internationalist commitment. The Japanese government has been offering to refugees and internally displaced persons constructive conditions and a long-term solution. When it established the resettlement pilot project in December 2008, with the Government becoming something of a pioneer in terms of the Asia region, it took another considerable step towards providing refugees residing in Mae La refugee camp in Thailand with a good opportunity at living in safety and dignity. The total figure of refugees and internally displaced persons under the protection and assistance of the UNHCR and the UNRWA reached approximately 42.30 million as of 2009. As stated on the website of the ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, refugees and internally displaced persons around the world continue to be not only of humanitarian concern but also involve issues that could undermine the peace and stability of the concerned regions and the entire world. This is why Japan, looking on events from the perspective of human security, places humanitarian assistance for refugees and internally displaced persons at a very high level of its international contribution, leading them to provide active support through many international organizations and extends support to Japanese NGOs involved in humanitarian assistance. In response to the mass outflow of Indo-Chinese (originating from Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia) in the late 1970s, Japan acceded to the Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees on October 3, 1981, and then to the Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees on January 1, 1982. Every contract came into force the day it was granted. In agreeing to the installation of said treaties, Japan amended the Immigration Control Order to establish a recognition system for refugee status and changed the title to the Immigration Control and Refugee Recognition, which came into force in January 1982. People identified as refugees are given the same benefits under the social security system provided to Japanese citizens and other foreign nationals. Moreover, recognized refugees also enjoy protection relating to entry into, departure from, and staying in Japan. Japan, being one of the most advanced countries in terms of reintegration of refugees, has already established a well-built relationship with the UNHCR. In the year 2012, the government of Japan the UNHCR joined hands to implement the pilot resettlement project, and support the setting up of a full-fledged programme. Furthermore, it will encourage for the greater involvement of civil society and local communities in assisting resettled refugees into local communities. In addition, UNHCR has also undertaken a wide range of awareness-raising activities in partnership with the Japanese national association, including collaborative internship programmes and public events, for example the Refugee Film Festival. Through these activities, the strategic partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency and Japanese NGOs will become stronger than ever. Japan was one of the first to open its arms to refugees seeking asylum. Furthermore, Japan also became one of the first Asian countries to offer the protection and benefits that refugees needed and craved, turning itself into a shining example of a country very much accepting of foreign cultures. 13

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Kenya
Settlement and reintegration of refugees have always been a key issue in the United Nations SOCHUM committee and the Republic of Kenya has been contributing to the debates with a high degree of involvement. At present, the Republic of Kenya is the host country of more than 559,000 refugees from various countries and the number is expected to grow. The Republic of Kenya has currently two of the largest refugee camps in the world, the Dadaab and Kakuma refugee camp, providing significant support to refugees. The government of Kenya is therefore setting up more refugee camps to satisfy the increasing demand and understands the importance of reintegrating refugees into the society. However, with the rising number of refugees, the government of Kenya faces social and economic problems that hinder the governments attempt in implementing such policies. The government of Kenya has been providing refugees in the nation with basic necessities, such as food and shelter, and assistance through the Department of Refugee Affairs which has consumed a large percentage of the nations resources. The further influx of refugees places financial burden on the government which is constantly trying to support the basic needs of refugees. Consequently, scarce resources lead to low living standards in camps, relying on the assistance of NGOs. The government of Kenya is anxious about the settlement of current and future refugees entering the territory and is also concerned about the reintegration of refugees which at the current stage is not carried out effectively. The Republic of Kenya believes that the core elements of the problems are the rising number of refugees and the lack of resources. The drain on resources caused by building and maintaining refugee camps is even threatening the quality of life of the local civilians. Furthermore, the government recognizes the root of the problem as the instability of nearby African countries. For example, asylum-seekers from Somalia, where human rights are abused and civilians are physically harmed, are the majority among the refugees within the nation; series of natural disasters also contribute to the large influx of people into Kenya. Kenya being a signatory to the 1951 United Nations Convention, the 1967 Protocol and the 1969 Organization of African Union Convention, continues to offer protection and assistance to refugees and asylum seekers by establishing the Department of Refugee Affairs, under the Refugees Act 2006. The government department provides services such as registration of asylumseekers, maintaining an appropriate registration and documentation system for refugees and issuing identification cards to refugees. The Refugee Act 2006, passed by Kenyan national legislative body, strengthens the nations protection of refugees and is very well-perceived by the majority of refugees. The governments current refugee policy requires all refugees and asylum-seekers to stay at the refugee camps assigned due to the safety and security concerns. Other than refugees in camps, the government also recognizes the growing number of refugees in urban areas who faces sever social problems, such as poverty and discrimination. The Republic of Kenya, however, falls short of the urban refugees demand for protection and assistance due to limited resources and the lack of legal recognition of them. The Republic of Kenya is hoping for improvement in the protection and reintegration of refugees. In the coming SOCHUM conference, the delegation of 14

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Kenya will be seeking for advice and practical assistance to the nation which could be beneficial to the wellbeing of refugees in Kenya. The delegation is determined to improve the living standards of refugees by resolving the issue from its root. Firstly, the delegation would like to call upon the neighbouring African countries to stabilise the internal political and social conditions in order to reduce the export of asylum-seekers. Secondly, the delegation would like to ask for funding and resources from other member states in order to maintain good living conditions in camps and develop programmes to reintegrate refugees into the society. It is unfortunately true that the government focuses on the protection and settlement of refugees rather than implementing policies to reintegrate refugees. Therefore, through funding and resources allocation, the government would have sufficient capital to carry out the required measures. The delegation strongly believes the problem of the lack of resources and growing number of asylum-seekers must be resolved before the reintegration of refugees should be carried out. The Republic of Kenya believes through international cooperation and coordination, the issue can be eased globally.

15

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Kuwait
A. Background of the Topic From UNHCR: The Middle East subregion is marked by extreme volatility. The civil unrest in the Syrian Arab Republic (Syria) poses a danger to the stability of neighbouring countries: it has led to the massive displacement of civilians including over 350,000 refugees. In addition, other refugee situations, such as that of the Iraqis in exile and the flow of Somalis into Yemen, show no signs of ending. For UNHCR, in 2013 it will be even more difficult to protect and assist the growing numbers of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the region. But it is still difficult for most refugees to achieve integration and acknowledgement of citizenship or official refugee status in host countries. In your country's opinion, what are the main elements of the problem? The main elements of the problem are that the people escaping from neighboring countries that are involved in conflict are becoming refugees that are having a hard time to adapt in the new country and society. In Kuwaits instance, the problem we are facing is that displacement of more than 190 000 Syrian refugees into Kuwait and neighboring countries such as Lebanon triggered by the civil war. What are the roots of those elements? The roots of the problems lies mainly in the extreme volatility in the Middle East. Civil unrest, religious conflicts and various types of violence poses a danger to the stability in the region, and has led to massive displacement of civilians. Most of these refugees come from Palestine, which is exchanging constant attacks with Israel; and recently Lebanon and Syria, both suffering from bitter civil wars. The situation is heightened with the revolutionary wave of demonstrations, protests and wars occurring in the Arab world since December 2010. What actions have been previously taken? Kuwait has sent supply aids to nearby countries that are affected by the inflow of the large number of refugees, for example in Northern Lebanon. At the start of the year 2013, we have delivered supplies that would hopefully cover the needs of some 12,000 Syrian families displaced in Northern Lebanon. Kuwait would continue to provide assistance to and care to their fellow Syrian brothers to ease some of their suffering. B. Position taken by your delegation What are your national interests in the situation? Reintegration of refugees is one of our priorities in humanitarian duties, due to the large influx of refugee population from neighboring countries. We acknowledge that refugees should have their rights safeguarded. We are concerned of their social status, especially having lost their homeland and are trying to adapt to our society. Furthermore, seeing them as our Arab brothers, we equally value their presence in Kuwait, which ultimately, they are able to contribute a significant amount of workforce to the country.

16

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

What are your nation's policies on the topic? Our nations main policy is to offer them jobs. Most of the refugees are people who are low-skilled or uneducated. To utilize them, we offer them labor jobs that does not require higher skill levels. About 80% of the labor force in Kuwait consistently comprises non-Kuwaitis since 1975, improving the production and economy of our country. From another perspective, it is also a process of integrating them into the new society by giving them opportunities in the society to earn a living and to ultimately work their way up. C. Proposal and Justication What will you propose as a solution to solve the problem? In order to solve the problem of the massive population of refugees in the middle east and in other parts of the world, we propose to implement our nations current policy into other countries that are dealing with the similar problem: to reintegrate the refugees by them offering jobs and opportunities, providing them a way to move up from the bottom of the spectrum in a new society. What are your main reasons for supporting this position? By offering jobs to refugees, not only the country will benefit from extra work force, the refugees themselves will also find a new direction in life and see that there is hope for them to live and move up in the society provided that they work hard. Overall, this is a win-win solution. What do you predict will be the main opposition to your proposals? We expect the opponents to our proposals will be criticizing our policy in the expulsion of Palestinians from Kuwait in 1991. Our opponents will probably point to us as hypocrites. It is therefore important note that before the PLO supported Iraqs invasion, we offered Palestinian refugees work and pay. However, our decision in expelling the Palestinian workers was solely a protest in response to the PLO supporting Iraqs cause for invading us, and has no relation with this topic.

17

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Libya
Libya would like to take this international platform to address the issue of refugees settling into new societies. Libya strongly relates to this issue for currently, even after the fall of dictator Muammar Gaddafi, we are still undergoing fighting from extreme Islamic militia groups. An estimate 200,000 people have been internally displaced, and more than 4,384 people are currently refugees residing in foreign countries. As Libya finds a transitional government, the process of democratic voting remains under pressure, for to take part, blood is the payment. The post-conflict transition in Libya is expected to open significant new opportunities to further maintain human rights and the law. Determined to rise to a better nation, we hope to work with other countries to create ties to solve our countrys current problems, and in the future will be able to requite the aid. We strongly urge all member states to collaborate and ensure peaceful coexistence between communities where the refugees and asylum seekers reside. Let us continue in bilateral action through consensus to achieve everyones goal of amalgamating refugees amicably.

18

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Malaysia
Background of the Topic Malaysia is not party to the 1951 Refugee Convention nor its Protocol and does not have an asylum system regulating the status and rights of refugees. The absence of a legal framework on asylum issues is a source of great unpredictability in the lives of refugees in the country. This challenging protection environment is placed within a context of some 3 million migrants, 1.9 million of whom are considered illegal. Malaysian law makes no distinction between refugees and undocumented migrants. Refugees are vulnerable to arrest for immigration offences. They may be subject to detention, prosecution, whipping and deportation. National NGOs have little capacity to support asylum-seekers and refugees, while international NGOs are unable to operate in the country. However, there have been some positive developments in 2010 and the first quarter of 2011. These have included the emergence of opportunities for UNHCR to present proposals to the Government for the establishment of a legal and administrative framework for the management of asylum, and the provision of assistance to refugees. UNHCR was also able to advocate with the Government for the latter to allow refugees the right to work, as well as to improve their access to education and health care. Finally, UNHCR has continued to encourage the Government to become a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. The Government has indicated that it is currently considering these proposals. While cooperation with the Government of Malaysia has steadily improved, the absence of a legal protection framework and weaknesses in the administrative structure for asylum have caused many people of concern to remain at risk. With limited State resources to call on in support of refugees, UNHCR Malaysia continues to fulfil its mandate responsibilities for registration and refugee status determination (RSD). It also continues to monitor detention facilities, and works to secure the release of refugees, while supporting health, education and community self-reliance programmes, and promoting durable solutions for refugees and asylum-seekers. The situation is particularly difficult for refugee children. In spite of the Government of Malaysia having signed the Convention on the Rights of the Child which obligates the Government to ensure education for all primary-aged children in Malaysia, no refugee children are allowed to attend Government schools. Of the 20,000 refugee children in Malaysia, 12,000 of them are schoolaged. What education is available is provided by UNHCR in partnership with the refugee communities and NGO partners. At present only 7,000 refugee children are participating in the existing, very basic education programmes that are available. No significant change is foreseen in the situation of populations of concern to UNHCR in Malaysia. UNHCR's estimates of some 15,000 new arrivals in the country in 2012 are based on average yearly arrivals of asylum-seekers, and the prevailing situations in refugee-producing countries.

19

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Position taken by Our Delegation UNHCR's people of concern in Malaysia comprises a large population of urban refugees, smaller groups of stateless people, and Filipino refugees in Sabah. Refugees and asylum-seekers in urban areas are those of highest concern to UNHCR in the country. Most refugees are unlikely to find durable solutions in Malaysia, although several stateless groups and the Filipino refugees in Sabah enjoy some degree of integration, and stand better chances of obtaining permanent residency or citizenship. The lack of legal protection in Malaysia means that urban refugees face grave protection risks on a daily basis. The refugee population in Malaysia also includes a large number of Muslims from Myanmar's northern Rakhine State, who are considered both refugees and stateless. However, we have already provided them employment, education and minimum wage, if were to sign the UN convention, we would be compelled to treat the refugees better than our people. Proposal and Justification Fair protection processes and documentation Access to and quality of RSD procedures are improved. RSD procedures are consistent with international standards. 90 per cent of people of concern have access to status determination procedures. Asylum-seekers are notified of the result of their application within 70 days of the first interview, and within 110 days of the submission of an appeal. Basic needs and essential services The health status of the population of concern is improved. 75 per cent of people of concern have access to primary health care. The population of concern has optimal access to education. 10 per cent of the population of concern aged 12-17 is enrolled in secondary school. 85 per cent of the population of concern aged 6-11 is enrolled in primary school. Community participation and self-management Self-reliance and livelihoods are improved. 40 per cent of the population of concern aged 18-59 is self-employed for more than 12 months. Community mobilization is strengthened and expanded. 10 per cent of leadership/management structures are headed by women. The working relationship between UNHCR and the Malaysian Government has continued to improve, with constructive engagement in a variety of areas, including the recognition of UNHCR documentation, and improved access to refugees in immigration detention. However, many other areas, including the access of people of concern to employment, and better education and health care, still require improvement.

20

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Given the current absence of a legislative and administrative framework to protect refugees, and the non-involvement of the Government in receiving and processing people of concern, UNHCR will continue to register asylum-seekers, undertake RSD and issue identity documents. Registration will cover the remaining unregistered asylum-seekers in the country, as well as new arrivals. UNHCR will continue to intervene in order to prevent the arrest, detention and refoulement of people of concern, as well as to secure their release where necessary. UNHCR will seek resettlement for the majority of the refugee population in Malaysia. At the same time, it will advocate with the Government for temporary, local solutions in the form of residence and work permits for groups of Muslim refugees from Myanmar's northern Rakhine State. To diversify resettlement to a range of resettlement countries, including newly emerging ones, UNHCR will promote fair and balanced resettlement opportunities for various ethnic groups from Myanmar and other countries. UNHCR will also continue to help its partners to provide humanitarian assistance to people of concern in the areas of basic needs and access to essential services, with a particular focus on health, education, community development and self-reliance. Furthermore, UNHCR will advocate with the Government of Malaysia at national and local levels, to ensure that the Filipino Muslims in Sabah and other stateless populations are allowed to remain in the country. It will mobilize civil society groups to gain a better understanding of the situation, and identify any potential for change. If sufficient funding becomes available, UNHCR will progressively increase its activities in Sabah towards strategic targets. UNHCR Malaysia's operational strategy will require strong cooperation with partners. Contributions from civil society and NGOs, the Malaysian Government and the refugee communities themselves will be central in the shared effort. At the operational level, given the large numbers of urban refugees and asylum-seekers, refugee communities are expected to be crucial partners in a sustained community development effort to address the wide array of protection and assistance needs.

21

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Morocco
The integration of refugees is a process in which parties concerned must put substantial effort to ensure that no conflicts arise. The host country must also help the refugees adapt to the host society without having to forego their own cultural identity. However, there are a number of cases where newcomers in a society have lost their cultural traditions and values. In order to protect invaluable traditions, parties involved must take this process in an earnest manner. The process of integration is challenging and gradual but economic, social and cultural factors are important for the refugees ability to integrate successfully and become new members of that society. The Kingdom of Morocco is fully committed to supporting integration of refugees. For more than thirty years, Morocco has seen the Sahrawi people living in the desolate Algerian Sahara. They are people exiled from their native Western Sahara, which is now currently the southern part of Morocco. In recent years, some of the population has chosen to return to the Western Sahara. The number of refugees has been drastically increasing for the past few years. For this reason, the United States Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI) has been offering various programs that have been a substantial helping hand in order for this process to run smoothly. Morocco will continue to invest in areas such as improving infrastructure. Morocco and USCRI will continue to assist the Sahrawi people to establish new lives and become active members in their new community. Similar to the case mentioned above, The Kingdom of Morocco will work together with any organizations that are willing to assist refugees. Morocco is aware that the issue of refugees reintegrating into societies is a topic that deeply influences universal human rights. Furthermore, Morocco will assist other refugees outside of Morocco if assistance is required. Morocco has a long tradition of allowing refugees and migrants to settle in our country. Morocco has ratified all the major international treaties, including the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and its Protocol in 1967. The Kingdom of Morocco suggests that the term stateless person, defined in the 1954 UN Convention, may somewhat lead to causing problems when refugees integrate. This is because defining a person stateless is essentially the same as discriminating those that do not have homes. Morocco believes that discriminating these people can lead to issues of culture racial prejudice. As a result of prejudice, Morocco has seen refugees suffer from environmental isolation and lack of education as well as health care. In this way, redefining the term will help reduce these prejudice views that people have towards newly integrated refugees. The Kingdom of Morocco looks forward to support nations with recommendations and ideas that will help all integration of refugees.

22

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Palestine Liberation Organization (observer)

Despite attempts made by the United Nations to uphold peace and stability, there were frequent instances of unrest within and among the Arabian communities- for example due to territorial settlements and/ or religious disputes. This created vast populations of refugees that were forced to flee from home and take up residency at a new location. PLO deems this problem especially severe when disputes with fellow Arabian states, such as Israel are not uncommon. The number of UNRWA registered Palestine refugees by January 2010 were high at 1,983,733 in Jordon. The 1948 Palestine war turned 85% of the Palestinian population into refugees. The PLO strives to protect its former citizens of Palestinian civil rights by the policy of Palestinian right of return and most importantly, stresses upon our refugee population of attaining equal civil rights as that of local citizens of the host countries, maintaining strict loyalty to the principle of self- determination. PLO is pleased to observe that nearly 2 million Palestinian refugees have taken residence in refugee camps in West Gaza, Jordon etc., revealing a certain degree of societal, political and economic integration. However, it has also come to PLOs alarm that though the Jewish Agency promised to the UN before 1948 that Palestinian Arabs would become full citizens of the State of Israel, however in practice, citizenship is not granted to our refugee population. The denial to integration into the society is also apparent when the Arab League openly instructed Arabian states to deny citizenship to PLO refugees. Furthermore, PLO refugees in Jordon are deprived of basic human rights, for instance being barred from 73 job categories, the Lebanese healthcare system or acquisition of job and land permits. In addition, PLO refugees in India similarly face hardship in searching for employment opportunities. PLO is highly concerned with such situations and sees an urgent need further reiterate the principle of selfdetermination as explicitly listed in Articles 1 and 55 of UN Charter 3. We believe that Palestinian refugees should be guaranteed with the right to selfdetermination and we take the deprivation of their basic human rights as a discriminative offence to the Palestinian population at large. By enacting the principle of self- determination, PLO refugees are given the right to pursue their own callings accordingly as that of local citizens of the host countries, enabling a larger degree of integration into their host communities be it from institutional or socio- economic perspectives. By imposing artificial restrictive measures against PLO refugees, they are unable to decide their own courses of actions. This is an evident instance of violation of basic human rights, and the PLO sees an urgent need to address such problem. The PLO strives to protect our citizens rights by advocating the policy of the Rights of Return. Our claim is based on Article 13 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, stating that "Everyone has the right to leave any country including his own, and to return to his country". This policy is an extension of the policy of self- determination and we welcome Palestinian population abroad to return to their home state and reclaim their property and assets accordingly. The PLO values the refugee population as an inherent part of the PLO population and we insist on safeguarding the rights and freedoms of our citizens.

23

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Ultimately, the PLO parties to the policy of self- determination by proposing the policy of the Rights of Return, exhibiting our extent in supporting the retaining of basic human rights of our citizens. The PLO has always been an avid supporter and abider to all UN legations, including that of Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights. PLO looks forward to offering our support in any policies assisting integration of refugees into new communities and playing our part in upholding human egalitarianism and world harmony.

24

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Philippines
As a nation which upholds a humanitarian spirit, the Philippines believes that human rights should be universal and should never be dependent on the presence or absence of a person's nationality or his affinity to his country. Refugee protection remains urgently needed by those forced to leave their countries, amidst the realities of conflict, violence and persecution. The Philippines views integration as a flexible and bidimensional process. Successful integration into new societies requires not only the refugees' adaptation to the host society but also the malleability and the capacity for change of the host society for the reception and integration of new groups. The Philippines has a long tradition of giving sanctuary to stateless people and establishing legal mechanisms to regularize their status. The refugee agency is also supporting the government to amend its nationality legislation to prepare for accession to the 1961 Convention. The Philippines was one of the first 23 countries to sign the 1954 Convention before it closed for signature on 31 Dec 1955, and has now ratified it to put it into effect. The Philippines remains the only country in the Asia-pacific region that is a signatory to the 1951 Convention and its 1967 Protocol and with an institutionalized refugee protection regime. The long-term goal is the development of a working model that can be used to engage other states within the region to accede to the 1951 Convention and to protect refugees in accordance with international standards. The Philippines was hailed by the UN refugee agency for being the first country in the Asia-Pacific region to establish a procedure to protect both refugees and stateless people. The Department of Justice of the Philippines recently published a circular that enhanced its current system of determining refugee status and put in place a procedure to ascertain whether a person is stateless. The new procedure is an important step to ensure the Philippines meets its obligations under the 1954 Convention relating to the Status of Stateless Persons, which it ratified last year, the first ASEAN (Association of South-east Asian Nations) member state to do so. The new mechanism is a testament to the genuine humanitarian spirit in the Philippines. This unified approach provides the widest possible protection net for refugees and the stateless in the most effective way. Refugees and stateless people are protected under Philippine law. With the new procedure, there is a way to unify refugees with extended family members. Asylum-seekers have the right to a lawyer and interpreter during the process, and they cannot be deported while undergoing the procedure, ensuring respect for international law. Other safeguards to protect asylum-seekers and refugees were integrated in the procedure, such as special measures for unaccompanied children. The Philippines believes that global legal instruments should be established to explicitly cover the most important aspects of a refugees life. Refugees deserve, as a minimum, the same standards of treatment enjoyed by other foreign nationals in a given country and, in many cases, the same treatment as nationals. The country recognizes the international scope of the refugee problem and the importance of international solidarity and cooperation in trying to resolve them. It is the duty of the international community to ensure that all 25

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

refugees are afforded equality and respect. The complete social, cultural and economic integration of refugees, can only be done along with the acceptance and inclusion of the important contribution brought by such a diverse group to different levels of the society where it has taken refuge.

26

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Russia
Concerning the plight of refugees, Russia is aware of the challenges facing their integration globally. Russia signed the Geneva Convention on the status of refugees and has developed its own refugee law. Between 2003 and 2010, more than 600,000 stateless people were naturalized in Russian Federation. However, statelessness still remains an issue of concern throughout the sub-region, mainly as a consequence of the disintegration of the former Soviet Union and the difficulties facing national minorities seeking to prove their citizenship. Up to a million people are still displaced in the Caucasus region. Russia intends to solve problems pertaining to migration, especially labour migration. We believe the Russian society has an obligation to integrate refugees and migrants; as they cannot return to their countries out of fear and have the potential to contribute to the Russian Federation. The Russian delegation is determined to find a common solution to this universal problem and looks forward to working with Federal Migration Service, the UNHCR and other nations in this committee in establishing effective frameworks and passing resolutions that will see the successful integration of refugees into societies

27

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Saudi Arabia
Armed conflicts, generalized violence and persistence violation of human rights have long led to refugees seeking asylum in the developing world. In todays social unrests and unstable transition phase in certain regions, more people will be forced to flee their homelands. Saudi Arabia is presently host to 291,000 refugees. The general conception of asylum seekers as financial burden and confusion over refugees and illegal migrants create social tension in the host country. In the face of possible economic and political strain faced by the governments and racial and cultural discriminations, issues caused by the root countries should instead be addressed. Saudi Arabia is not a party to the 1951 Convention relating to the States of Refugees or to its 1967 Protocol, nor the 1965 Casablanca Protocol concerning Palestinian refugees. However, Article 42 of the Constitution provides that the State shall grant political asylum, if so required by public interest. Migrants with residence permits would be allowed to apply for asylum and have access to education. Since September 1998, Saudi Arabia has accepted the UNHCR procedure to carry out refugee status determination for individual asylum seekers on its behalf. Nevertheless, Saudi Arabia has been greatly concerned with the problem of African refugees. The kingdom has, and will continue to, provide assistance in money, medical supplies, foodstuffs and shelter. In regards to integration of refugees into society, it is not a top priority of Saudi Arabias authorities. It can only do as far to cure the symptoms of refugee issues, but not the root causes for the high influx of refugees. Simply giving migrants the tools to succeed and fit into the new society do not fully cure the problems of refugee flow. Humanitarian action alone cannot resolve the fundamental economic, social and political problems for the flight of asylum seekers. Effective approach to the protection of refugees can only be provided when the underlying key problems of refugee movement are addressed, and in this context, poverty and security. Granting identity of temporary asylum and giving humane treatment would only encourage more refugees, leaving these problems unaddressed and contribute to further deterioration. Establishment of a reliable conflict resolution mechanism that could ensure stability in regions is integral. Assistance to promote coexistence, if not quite yet for reconciliation, in affected areas and rebuilding communities and lives should be encouraged, which includes devising ways to bring people together and to raise awareness on the importance and the potential to create a socially harmonious society.

28

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

South Korea
The Republic of Korea has been a signed patron of the 1951 Refugee Convention since 1992, and has been granting citizenship ever since. We believe all economically secure nations should be open to welcoming refugees, and that refugees should work towards integration with the local culture and society. We are the first East Asian nation to pass a Law on the Status and Treatment of Refugees which shall be in full effect on July 1st, 2013. It provides a clear legal process by which refugees may register for resettlement into South Korea, a guarantee of their human rights, and allows them to bear a legal status in our nation whilst pending. We believe all countries should implement such policies in accordance to Articles 13, 14, and 15, of the Declaration of Human Rights which promise the rights to leave any country, seek and enjoy another countrys asylum from persecution, and change his nationality. Finally, we love our North Korean refugees. Bring em in! The more the merrier.

29

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Switzerland
Switzerland is an open-minded and tolerant nation and firmly believes and promotes the idea of integration of refugees. In the field of foreign affairs Switzerland remains neutral and greatly committed, The Swiss attaches great importance to basic social values such as democracy, respect of the rule of law, equality for men and women and religious tolerance. Switzerland understands and respects that integration covers all efforts which serve to promote mutual understanding between the Swiss and foreign populations: Living together on the basis of shared fundamental values and behavior patterns and information are central concerns. The process of integration requires both the foreign nationals' readiness to be integrated and openness on the part of the Swiss population. Integration aims at creating favorable conditions for equality of opportunity regarding access to social and economic resources. Over the past few decades, Switzerland which brought over thousands of guest workers from southern Europe after World War II has also become home to a large population from the Balkans, along with immigrants from Asia and Africa. Many originally came to Switzerland seeking protection, in contrast to Switzerland's other, more numerous foreign residents: present-day European Union (EU) and European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizens who came to work in Switzerland either as guest workers or under a bilateral agreement that since 2002 allows EU/EFTA citizens to live and work freely in the country (the European Union has 27 Member States while EFTA has four including Switzerland). In 2008, Switzerland had over 1.6 million foreign residents according to official government statistics, or 21.4 percent of the country's total population (foreign residents do not include naturalized immigrants but do include those born in Switzerland to foreign-national parents). An average of 40,000 foreigners has naturalized each year since 2002. Foreigners' sizable share of the population sets Switzerland apart from other European countries, as does the makeup of this group. Of those 1.6 million foreign residents, 62.6 percent were from EU/EFTA countries, mainly Italy and Germany. Since 2001, the Confederation has made funds available to promote the integration of foreign nationals. Interested parties who organize relevant projects and wish to apply for federal funding may submit an application to the FCF. As a rule, such funding is only granted provided that cantons, communes or third parties adequately participate in the costs. For information about project funding, you may also refer to the cantonal and communal integration agencies (foreign national services) and / or integration delegates. Furthermore, the Swiss Refugee Council was established in 1936 which is a non-governmental, politically and religiously independent umbrella association of all important Swiss relief organizations working for refugees and asylum seekers. The Swiss Refugee Council is committed to the rights and protection of refugees in Switzerland, it calls for fair refugee status determination procedures, refugee integration and a return in conditions of safety and dignity. The country of origin analysis unit is an independent research center and its activities include researching individual query requests, publishing country reports, thematic papers as well as policy papers in order to foster an objective and fair trail for asylum seekers in Switzerland. Switzerland encourages all delegates to take part and join the integration of refugees as it is giving people are given the 30

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

accessible choice and dignity as an asylum seeker for further opportunities and a second chance. Switzerland proposes clauses to be created to ensure the safety and opportunity for refugees.

31

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Syria
The integration of immigrants into Syria, as well as the integration of Syrian nationals overseas, while not of pressing concern towards the Republic, are nonetheless important. The migrant population constitutes about 9.8% of the total population; in recent years, the Republic has been promoting a policy of reducing migration in Syria, and while conceding that not many significantly constructive policies have been made, has not neglected the need to aid immigrants to integrate, and has made it increasingly convenient for foreigners to immigrate into Syria with the aid of overseas embassies; however, efforts to integrate asylum-seekers have produced less evident positive results. The Republic recognises the needs and benefits of smoothly integrating immigrants into the local community, and the difficulties of immigrants in establishing a livelihood without the aid of the government. The Republic is willing to work with the UN to integrate immigrants, in accordance with existing UN guidelines or new resolutions introduced insofar the Republic deems them reasonable and feasible. The Republic suggests that the UN take measures to prevent lengthy or troublesome application procedures for immigrants, as well as require member states to implement or promote social programmes to aid the integration of immigrants, and, in the long term, asylum-seekers into the community. The Republic also proposes that member states are given guidelines and requirements to fulfill according to their current state of development and stability, since demanding that less-developed or war-torn countries implement immigrant integrations within a short time period is likely to place unnecessary burdens on their government; furthermore, more developed nation states can provide positive precedents, as well as (and having sufficient resources and ability to do so) aid in rectifying any inadequacies or inaccuracies. The Republic also hopes that more religious tolerance can be introduced into communities in which the majority of immigrants relocate into, in order to further facilitate integration and minimise possible conflict. Syria, as a religiously liberal and diverse country, believes that achieving greater religious tolerance is essential to improving immigrant integration, and hopes that the UN can step in to aid this process.

32

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Turkey
The fear of mass influx of refugees into Turkey remains a severe problem. In 2008, Turkey received an estimated 13,000 new asylum applications from people of Iran, Iraq, Syria are still getting into Turkey from the troublesome Middle East. Many thousands more may be remaining in Turkey irregularly. We, Turkey appreciate the importance of human rights. We will provide equal access to economic opportunities to ethnic minority groups. However, they must also abide with my countrys law and order. Sometimes, we cannot accept all nationals of countries outside the Council of Europe as refugees due to the lack of resources in our own country. As a result, we are being criticized as denying refugees and the refugees are forcibly returned to Iraq despite fears for their lives. Some even said that we have violated the rights of asylum-seekers on a regular basis even while their asylum claims are under way and after they are granted refugee status and that we do not conform to international standards. We must protest against these positions. Actually, Turkey is one of the states and signatories to the Refugee Convention. We have settled thousands of resettled Kurdish women in southeast part of Turkey. However, asylum-seekers stayed in our country are always extending their stay. We are often in difficulties in providing them with sufficient food. We have no choice but asked them to go without much adequate legal procedure, returning them to countries. We understand their lives may be at risk but we have no choice. That is the situation that we seek any possible solution from this conference. We do not find that refugees are denied opportunity to apply for asylum either at Turkeys borders or after being arbitrarily detained. Actually, there may be occasions that they do not submit a proper application and not because they could not have access to a fair and satisfactory national refugee status determination system. In response to the above questions about the refugees in Turkey, we agree that ethnic minority groups have interest in economic development of the host country. The committee, however, must balance the competing interests of governments, majority ethnic groups, and ethnic minorities to develop creative solutions to this pressing problem to achieve optimum efficiency. We appeal for financial support of accepting these refugees. It is good that the Government of Japan and the United Nations (UN) decided to extend the total of 1,030,000- dollar assistance through the Trust Fund for Human Security to the project "Reintegration of Returning IDP/ Refugee Women in Community Building" to be implemented by the United Nations Development Fund for Women. We consider that continued financial support to the refugees and suitable resources should be put to the host countries. The financial support from other countries can be used for relieving refugees from poverty and basic governmental services like education, encourage active participation in the economic progress and development in their country must be focused, as some ethnic groups remain at a severe disadvantage because of both direct discrimination and indirect neglect. We support the project of facilitating the process of reintegration of IDP/ refugee women into the society providing health care and education service, psychological counseling, and vocational training as well as awareness raising on 33

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

women's rights and gender issues through the media. After careful consideration and for the best interest of the welfare of people in Turkey, we have decided not to accept the request from the Amnesty International, asking us to lift the geographical limitation and set a fair and satisfactory national asylum procedure.

34

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Uganda
For millions refugees residing in nearby countries or farther afield, local integration is one of the possible solutions for them, according to UNHCR. By giving refugees opportunities to integrate and belong, they are able to become self- reliant and to contribute socially and economically. Nonetheless, at present, many of the refugees are struggling to integrate into their local communities and start their new lives. Our country, Uganda is concerned about this issue. Indeed, over the past few years, Uganda has carried out various measures to address the problem. In 1999, Uganda implemented Self Reliance Strategy, jointly drawn with UNHCR. It aimed to empower the refugees to support themselves and ensure the integration of refugees with nationals in the areas. It was followed by Act of Refugees in 2006. Refugees were allocated lands for cultivation, granted the same rights to work as nationals and access to elementary education. Nevertheless, there are still constraints under the Uganda Refugee Act and hinder local integration. Many of the refugee policies in Uganda can only be applied to refugees living in the settlements. Refugees outside cannot have access to education, and aids. This prohibits them from the prospects of integration. As well as this, there are restrictions for the naturalization, legal residency options and rights of refugees. As a result, without a legal status, they are hard to break through the cycle of poverty. Also, the huge number of refugees results in a heavy burden for the country both economically and socially. To tackle the above problem, it is essential to reconsider the situation of refugees and adopt a more positive, constructive, proactive approach. Refugee issue should be addressed from its root cause such as promoting regional stability. By doing so, refugees can return to where they belong and have their interests enhanced. Moreover, according to the Agenda for Protection announced by UNHCR, the international solidarity and burden sharing of the integration of refugees should also be noted. With reference to the 1951 Convention, UNHCR is responsible for the protection of refugee. It should be further adopted as a platform for cooperation, where countries share the responsibilities of refugee protection more equitably. As the world is interconnected, only broad, deep and sustained world cooperation can achieve better situation of refugees.

35

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

Ukraine
Refugees are a displaced group of people, forced to flee from their native country due to a threat in their safety, whether it be from war, persecution or a natural disaster. They look to seek asylum in an alternate country, getting there by any means possible. The real issue lies in whether this country will accept the refugees, and what they will do to support these peoples needs-whether they be basic, such as food, water or shelter, or complex, like a new job, right of abode and citizenship. In 1950, the UN created the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, an organisation solely dedicated to support and protection of refugees, and defending their rights and safety. They are the UNs primary source for matters regarding the status of refugees. The Ukraine fully recognises the needs of these displaced people, and accepts the responsibility of trying to provide a stable environment in their time of need. We are currently working with the UNHCR on a 10-point plan of action, which will become a framework on which we will base our refugee policy. This will help us to better fit the international guidelines provided by the UNHCR, and will help to enhance communication within our government departments, support the integration of refugees with whom returning to their homeland is not an option, enhancing identification and classification of these displaced people, and encourage the government to take responsibility for these people.

36

Hong Kong Model United Nations 2013

GA SOCHUM

United Kingdom
In the past decades, protecting refugees have been the core mandate of the UN refugee agency. During these years UNHCR has offered protection and assistance to tens of millions of refugees, finding durable solutions for many of them. In UK, we continue to take pride in welcoming migrants and refugees and have made substantial contributions to enriching the economic and social life of the country. By "integration" we mean the process that takes place as refugees are empowered to achieve their potentials as members of British society, to contribute fully to the community and to become fully able to exercise the rights and responsibility that they share with other residents. In UK, multiple refugees integration projects have been set up, such as the Refugee Integration and Employment Service operated by Refugee Action. This new service provides support to recent refugees to help them to settle into UK society and to find employment. General advice and support regarding issues such as housing, benefits and access to English classes is available for six months. The service also assists refugees in job searches, job applications, CV-writing and interview techniques for up to a year. Unfortunately we also recognize issues regarding to some public institutions, service providers and support services not addressing the needs of refugees and their families. This kind of discrimination has strongly prevented many refugees from securing jobs that are appropriate to their abilities in order to live a life with adequate support. Consequently, many migrants and refugees with good and useful academic qualifications from abroad still find themselves trap in mean jobs with no potential for improvement whereas their skills could be better used if empowered. Furthermore, there is the problem of victimization of refugees provoked by some media hostility that resulted in racial harassment and racially motivated violence. In order for refugees to contribute fully to all aspects of the society, they must feel safe and secure in the large refugee communities in UK. All these strong obstacles and barriers to refugees integration evidently prevent many migrants and refugees from contributing to the developments of their home countries or to invest in meaningful initiatives and projects back home. Therefore in conclusion, we will like to spread the idea of building a correct attitude towards refugees from early age and that the media has to make efforts to positively present the image of refugees and defend their interest in the public.

37