CRS Issue Statement on Humanitarian Policy on Refugees and Other Populations

Chad C. Haddal, Coordinator
Analyst in Immigration Policy

The majority of humanitarian emergencies worldwide stem from natural disasters or from conflicts. Intervention results in varying amounts of relief and recovery assistance, including the placement of displaced persons. Factors that may impact decision making with respect to displaced persons include the impact of the disaster or conflict and refugee flows on stability in the region in question. Additionally, other issues may include an examination of the disparity between numbers of internally displaced persons and refugees worldwide and the available funding for these groups; physical protection of refugees and other vulnerable populations in addition to the protection of human rights; and the creation of durable solutions for displaced populations. With respect to U.S. policies on this population, the issue facing Congress is how to balance the goals of providing protection to aliens subject to persecution, maintaining homeland security, and minimizing the fraudulent use of humanitarian policies.


Date of Report: January 6, 2010
Number of Pages: 3
Order Number: IS40325
Price: $7.95

Document available electronically as a pdf file or in paper form.
To order, e-mail congress@pennyhill.com or call us at 301-253-0881.