Note on International Protection

Summary Three-quarters of a century since the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted, the right to seek and enjoy asylum, enshrined in article 14 and one of the earliest human rights principles, remains elusive for many people who are forced to flee conflict and persecution. This note examines the progress made in securing the rights of refugees, asylum-seekers, returnees, internally displaced persons and stateless people, as well as the significant obstacles encountered, covering the period from July 2022 to June 2023. It analyses the protection landscape, including in forgotten crises and protracted situations of displacement, while highlighting efforts to facilitate solutions for the displaced. The note describes the complementary efforts of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and partners to strengthen responses to mixed movements of refugees and migrants, in support of the implementation of the Global Compact on Refugees and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. It calls on States and all stakeholders to prepare concrete and meaningful pledges towards the 2023 Global Refugee Forum, unlocking opportunities for inclusion, development, education and other key areas that require support and investment. It also outlines the needs of people at heightened risk, including those with disabilities, women and children, and survivors of gender-based violence. The note concludes that too many displaced and stateless people are unable to enjoy their rights and that UNHCR, governments and partners need to redouble efforts, working together with displaced and stateless people, to realize them in practice.