UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, has welcomed Brazil’s adoption of a new national policy aimed at advancing protection and support for vulnerable groups, including refugees. The policy, led by Brazil’s Ministry of Justice and Public Security, establishes a comprehensive framework that involves federal, state, and municipal governments, civil society, international organizations, private entities, and the affected populations themselves.
Anchored in Brazil’s constitution, refugee and migration laws, and international commitments, the policy provides clear guidelines for protection, assistance, and local integration, reinforcing the country’s longstanding human rights and humanitarian tradition. It seeks to strengthen inclusion in essential services such as health care, education, employment, housing, and social assistance, while promoting decent work and equal opportunities for all. It also regulates the reception of individuals affected by humanitarian crises and fosters cooperation across government bodies.
The policy emphasizes awareness campaigns against xenophobia and discrimination, encourages intercultural education, and guarantees the active participation of refugees, migrants, and stateless people in decision-making. It also prioritizes data collection and analysis to inform and evaluate public policies, assigning specific responsibilities to different ministries.
Davide Torzilli, UNHCR Representative in Brazil, highlighted that the policy reflects the government’s commitment to expanding and improving mechanisms for the reception and integration of refugees, migrants, and stateless people, allowing them to fully exercise their legally enshrined rights.
The groundwork for this policy was laid during the 2nd National Conference on Migration, Asylum and Statelessness (COMIGRAR), which involved over 14,000 participants across 199 preparatory meetings. The conference generated 60 priority recommendations informed by the voices of refugees, migrants, and stateless people in Brazil.
By implementing this robust legal and institutional framework, Brazil reaffirms its leadership in the protection of displaced people. The policy enables inclusive public services that support humanitarian responses, foster integration, and empower displaced populations to contribute locally, with UNHCR committing to support Brazil in its implementation.
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