UNHCR Note on Fumigations

New Publication from UNHCR:

Note on Issues Related to Eligibility for International Protection in the Context of Fumigations 30 July 2007 http://www.unhcr.org/cgi-bin/texis/vtx/refworld/rwmain?docid=46b6d62f2

This Note provides guidance on the elements to be considered in deciding on asylum applications for international protection as refugees which may be lodged by persons who have fled areas where fumigation operations are conducted. In Part I, the Note analyses the applicable criteria set out in the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. It examines two distinct situations: (a) persons fleeing harm related to conflict and/or generalized violence in areas where fumigations take place; and (b) persons fleeing harm resulting from fumigation operations as such. Part II of the Note outlines the assessment which should be undertaken with respect to other international protection needs that may be relevant under broader refugee definitions and/or by virtue of the extended refugee definition under UNHCR's mandate.

The position can be accessed through www.refworld.org, or directly at the above-mentioned URL.