Transcript UNHCR: A Draft Model Framework for Cooperation in Rescue

UNHCR: A Draft Model
Framework for Cooperation in
Rescue at Sea Emergencies
Areti Sianni
UNHCR
Origins & Focus
• In response to particular challenges in
agreeing on disembarkation and
responsibilities for reception and follow up
procedures
• Focus on actions after a rescue at sea
operation
• Focus on refugees given UNHCR’s mandate
/ suggested actions take into account the
mixed character of irregular maritime
movements
Purpose
• To improve responses following rescue
at sea operations involving refugees
travelling as part of mixed movements
through practical cooperation and
burden and responsibility sharing
Principles
• Maximise efforts to reduce loss of life at
sea;
• Ensure predictability in identifying
places for disembarkation;
• Safeguard the principle of nonrefoulement;
• Promote the principle of burden and
responsibility sharing;
Structure of
Model Framework
• Identifies the States implicated in a
particular rescue at sea operation
• Identifies possible roles and
responsibilities
• Proposes a structure for coordination
and cooperation
Implicated States
- Flag state of the rescuing vessel;
- Flag State of the vessel in distress if such a
State can be identified;
- State in whose Search and Rescue region the
rescue operation takes place;
- State where rescued persons are disembarked;
- State where rescued persons are processed;
- States of transit and origin of rescued persons;
- Third States including resettlement countries
Possible Roles and
Responsibilities
• Coordinating search and rescue activities
• Carrying out SAR activities
• Providing a place for disembarkation and
initial reception;
• Processing rescued persons;
• Providing solutions and outcomes;
• Providing financial support to affected
States
Establishment of a
Task Force
A platform for:
• Information sharing through focal points;
• Communication/Coordination;
• Clarification of responsibilities in terms of
disembarkation;
Areas covered by Model
Framework
• Disembarkation (criteria for identifying
disembarkation places);
• Initial Reception Arrangements;
• Mechanisms for Profiling and Referral;
• Processing (where and by whom pending
on capacity);
• Outcomes and Solutions;
• Capacity Building
Mobile Protection
Response Teams
• Experts from States/international organizations and
NGOs;
• Established on a stand-by basis and deployed on
request of States in emergency situations
• To meet immediate needs of upon arrival (shelter, food,
health care)
• To provide information and counselling upon
disembarkation
• Initial profiling;
• Support for RSD through assistance with interpretation,
country of origin information, case management
Options for Using the Model
Framework
- As the basis for an ad hoc arrangement in
response to a particular rescue at sea
emergency;
• As the basis for a standing cooperative
arrangement to enhance predictability;
• one element in a broader comprehensive
regional approach addressing irregular
migration
• Complement to mechanisms/initiatives in
place to implement the SAR and SOLAS
Conventions
Recommended
Next Steps
• Adaptation to regional realities and challenges;
• State commitment to lead the process and
facilitate consensus building among concerned
States;
• Role of UNHCR and other international
organisations as facilitators/conveners
• Engagement and support by international
community (resettlement countries/those
involved in shipping/naval activities)