United Nations Addenda to the Report of the United Nations High Commissioner for RefugeesGeneral Assembly Official Records : Eleventh Session Supplement No.11A A/3123/Rev.1/Add.1 and Add.2) United Nations, New York, 1957

Addendum 1 Effect of the Short-Fall in Governmental Contributions to the United Nations Refugee Fund

I.          INTRODUCTION

General remarks

1.         At its third session, the UNREF Executive Committee decided that the General Assembly should be informed at its next session of the state of the UNREF programme and requested the High Commissioner to prepare an addendum to his report to the eleventh session of the General Assembly [1] indicating the effect of the short-fall in governmental contributions on the reduction in the camp population.

2.         This decision of the Executive Committee was supported by a number of delegations during the consideration of the report of the High Commissioner by the Economic and Social Council at its twenty-second session.

Scope of the UNREF programme

3.         It will be recalled that in his report submitted at the ninth session of the General Assembly [2] the High Commissioner pointed out that the experience of the past few years had shown that the refugee problem was far from solved. There were at that time some 350,000 refugees who were not completely assimilated, of whom over 100,000 were still living in camps [3] in Europe.

4.         Furthermore, the High Commissioner stated that if a programme such as was outlined in his report could be followed "there was no doubt that a very considerable contribution to the solution of the refugee problem could be made during the next five years".

5.         The programme outlined in the report was designed to accelerate the absorption of a "relatively large proportion of the approximately 350,000 refugees who do not wish to be repatriated and who have not been completely assimilated". Such a programme would be designed in the first place to assist those refuges who are still in the camps and whose tragic situation was described in chapter III of document A/2648.

6.         The estimate of 350,000 unassimilated refugees, which was originally submitted to the fourth session of the High Commissioner's Advisory Committee in document A/AC.36/32, was made in January 1954 and was based on data relating to the situation which obtained in the middle of 1953. This estimate was based on:

(a)  The number of refugees living in official and unofficial camps;

(b)  The following groups amongst the refugees living outside camps:

(i)   Difficult cases;

(ii)   Physically handicapped refugees who can be enabled to earn their own subsistence;

(iii)  Refugees difficult to (re)settle because of their social or economic handicaps;

(iv)  Other unemployed refugees;

(v)   Other refugees living in sub-standard dwellings;

(vi)  Unassimilable refugees who wish and are likely to emigrate in the near future;

(vii) Dependants of refugees in categories (i) to (vi).

7.         The estimate of the number of refugees who were not completely assimilated was revised in the light of the progress which had been made in the settlement of refugees and was as follows as at 1 January 1955:

Country	Refugees in camps	Non-settled refugees outside camps	Total number of non-settled refugees
Austria	46,700	60,000	106,700
Germany	29,750	65,000	94,750
Greece	2,700	5,700	8,400
Italy	5,900	13,000	18,900
Other countries	-	63,700	63,700
Total	85,000	207,400	292,450

Timing of the UNREF programme

8.         When the outline of the UNREF programme was originally submitted in document A/AC.36/32 to the High Commissioner's Advisory Committee at its fourth session in March 1954, it was planned as a five-year programme to be carried out in the period 1954-1958. The Advisory Committee suggested "that the problem of promoting permanent solutions should be examined in greater detail by the Economic and Social Council", and "therefore suggested that the High Commissioner submit the detailed programme through the Economic and Social Council to the General Assembly".

9.         This was done and, at its ninth session in the autumn of 1954, the General Assembly considered the High Commissioner's report (A/2648), together with the additional information requested by the Economic and Social Council in document A/2648/Add.2, and adopted, on 21 October 1954, resolution 832 (IX) by which it authorized the High Commissioner to undertake the UNREF programme, at the same time requesting the Advisory Committee to establish the financial target for the new programme.

10.       The Advisory Committee, at its fifth session in December 1954, considered the target for the UNREF programme, which was reframed as a four-year programme for the period 1955-1958 (A/AC.36/37), and decided that the total target for governmental contributions to UNREF, to be sought by the Negotiating Committee for Extra-Budgetary Funds, should be $16 million for the four years 1955-1958. At the same time, it proposed to the Economic and Social Council that it should be reconstituted as an Executive Committee.

11.       At its first session in May 1955, the newly constituted UNREF Executive Committee, which had been established under Council resolution 565 (XIX), gave its general approval to the UNREF plan of operations for 1955 and authorized for implementation a number of projects.

12.       It will be seen from the above that, owing to the procedures required for its establishment, the UNREF programme was cut from a five-year programme, designed to be carried out in the period 1954-1958, to a four-year programme which had in fact to be carried out in three-and-a-half years between the middle of 1955 and the end of 1958.

Targets for governmental contributions

13.       The total target for governmental contributions to UNREF was fixed by the Advisory Committee at its fifth session at $16 million. In the light of the various decisions taken by the UNREF Executive Committee concerning the annual targets, this total amount is broken down over the four years of the programme as follows:

	$
1955	4,200,000
1956	4,400,000
1957	4,400,000
1958	3,000,000
Total	16,000,000

14.       The governmental contributions to UNREF for the year 1955, which are listed in table I below, amounted to $2,653,697, leaving a short-fall in governmental contributions of $1,546,303. Table I also indicates that, on 1 September 1956, the payments, pledges and promises of governmental contributions to UNREF for 1956 amounted to $2,570,000, which would leave a short-fall of approximately $1,830,000.

15.       On the assumption that Governments would contribute to the Fund in each of the years 1957 and 1958 an amount of approximately $2,500,000, as they have pledged for 1956, the short-fall in governmental contributions would amount to $1,900,000 in 1957 and to $500,000 in 1958. The total short-fall in governmental contributions, as compared with the total target of $16 million, would amount, on that assumption, to approximately $5,800,000, or 36.3 per cent, as is shown in the following breakdown:

Year	Target $	Estimate of actual contributions $	Estimated short-fall $
1955	4,200,000	2,653,697	1,546,303
1956	4,4000,000	2,570,000,	1,830,000
1957	4,4000,000	2,500,000	1,900,000
1958	3,000,000	2,500,000	500,000
1955-1958	16,000,000	10,200,000a	5,800,000a

a approximately.

16.       The purpose of the present addendum to the High Commissioner's report is to analyse the effect of this total short-fall on the planned reduction in the number of non-settled refugees which would result from the UNREF programme, and particularly on the planned reduction of the number of refugees living in camps. To be complete, this analysis must deal not only with the direct effects of the UNREF programme, but also with the indirect effects, as well as with effects of other programmes carried out during the period 1955-1958 on behalf of non-settled refugees.

17.       In that connexion, it must be emphasized that, when the UNREF programme was prepared and when the four-year target for UNREF was established at $16 million, it was obvious that not every non-settled refugee could benefit directly from such a limited programme, in fact, the UNREF programme was not only meant to provide directly permanent solutions for a limited number of refugees, but was also devised to act as a "prime mover" in the field of permanent solutions. The indirect effects of the programme and the effects of other programmes were, from the outset, regarded as of equal importance with its direct effects.

18.       Before the effect of the short-fall can be clearly seen, it is necessary to have a clear idea of the full potential impact on the refugee situation of the UNREF programme.

II.         POTENTIAL IMPACT OF THE UNREF PROGRAMME ON THE REFUGEE SITUATION

A.         Direct effects of the UNREF programme

19.       In estimating the direct effects of the UNREF programme on the refugee situation, account is taken only of the refugees for whom permanent solutions will be provided through the UNREF projects – either through their resettlement outside their present country of residence, or through their integration into the economy of their country of residence – and of the refugees who will benefit from projects for the settlement of difficult cases.

20.       Large numbers of refugees who will benefit from the UNREF programme are not taken into account, such as those who benefit temporarily under emergency aid projects and those who benefit from counselling or other services provided under permanent solutions projects, but who cannot be regarded as finally settled. There is no doubt, however, that many of these refugees will receive through the UNREF programme effective help which will often lead to a permanent solution.

21.       In estimating in the tables attached to the present document the number of refugees who would be settled through the UNREF programme, an attempt has been made to distinguish between refugees living in camps and who would be enabled through the programme to leave the camps, and non-settled refugees who already live outside camps.

22.       In planning and carrying out UNREF projects, emphasis is laid on providing help to refugees living in camps. It will be seen, however, from the various figures given in the present document that a sizeable number of refugees living outside camps have already benefited from UNREF projects and that other refugees from this category are likely to benefit therefrom in the future.

23.       A number of UNREF projects which are primarily designed to provide unless they also benefit some non-settled refugees living outside camps. More-over, the UNREF Executive Committee has included in the UNREF plan of operations various projects designed to provide permanent solutions for refugees in a number of countries where there are no refugee camps, such as China, France and Belgium, and the Near and Middle East.

Number of refugees to benefit from governmental contributions

24.       Table IV gives an analyse of the number of 60,770 refugees in camps and outside camps who should benefit from the UNREF projects for permanent solutions or for difficult cases financed from governmental contributions to the Fund, if the target for each year could be reached. This number is broken down as follows:

Plan of operations	Refugees in camps	Refugees outside camps	Total
1955	8,820	6,620	15,440
1956	8,620	10,160	18,780
1957	8,160	7,340	15,500
1958	9,125	1,925	11,050
Total	34,725	26,045	60,770

25.       The breakdown over the various countries of the total number of 60,770 refugees to be settled would be as follows:

Country	Refugees in camps	Refugees outside camps	Total
Austria	17,985	10,815	28,800
Germany	10,345	1,635	11,980
Greece	1,260	1,910	3,170
Italy	2,535	2,065	4,600
Other countries	2,600	9,620	12,220
Total	34,725	26,045	60,770

Numbers of refugees to benefit from non-governmental contributions

26.       The above figures relate only to UNREF projects planned within the over-all target of $16 million established for governmental contributions to the Fund. However, one of the purposes of the establishment of UNREF was also to provide an incentive to private efforts on behalf of refugees and to stimulate existing organizations, as well as individuals, either to contribute to the Fund or to collect moneys on its behalf. The most sizeable contribution from private sources so far received was a grant of $947,368 made early in 1955 by the Netherlands Committee for Aid to Refugees. This amount, which represented the major part of the proceeds of a national campaign organized in the Netherlands in 1954-1955, enabled UNREF to finance projects to settle 4,600 refugees in Austria and Greece, including 2,170 refugees in camps and 2,430 refugees outside camps.

27.       It is difficult to forecast the size of private contributions which will still be made to the United Nations Refugee Fund. It should be mentioned, however, that the Fund receives occasionally small private contributions, which in 1955 amounted to $11,576, in addition to the grant mentioned in the preceding paragraph, and that fund-raising campaigns will be organized in the autumn of 1956 in the United Kingdom and New Zealand, and possibly in other countries in 1957.

28.       It is probably reasonable to add to the number of beneficiaries from UNREF projects financed form governmental contributions some 6,000 refugees who would be settled through projects to be financed form private contributions during the period 1956-1958. Together with the 4,600 refugees benefiting from the grant made by the Netherlands Committee for Aid to Refugees, it is estimated, therefore, that the total number of refugees to benefit from projects financed by private contributions would reach some 10,600 refugees during the whole period 1955-1958.

Supporting contributions

29.       In analysing briefly the direct effects of the UNREF programme, mention must be made of the supporting contributions from within the countries of residence. It will be recalled that, in paragraph 5 of resolution 832 (IX), the General Assembly had requested the High Commissioner "to prepare, for presentation to the [UNREF Executive Committee], detailed proposals for projects designed to achieve permanent solutions, including plans for adequate financial or other contributions from sources within the countries of residence;".

30.       Considerable attention has been given by the Office of the High Commissioner to this aspect of the programme. Whereas UNREF contributions to projects in the course of implementation included in the plan of operations for 1955 amounted to $2,878,970,[4] an amount of approximately $5 million is being contributed towards these projects form sources within the countries of residence, bringing the total value of these projects to approximately $8 million. On the basis of calculations which have been made, it is estimated that the total value of supporting contributions towards UNREF projects could amount to some $40 million for the period 1955-1958 provided that the target of $16 million can be reached. This would bring up the total value of UNREF projects to some $56 million.

B. Indirect effects of the UNREF programme

31.       In awakening through the UNREF programme interest in permanent solutions for refugees, it was also hoped that the Governments of the countries where large numbers of non-settled refugees still reside would be stimulated in their efforts towards a solution of the refugee problem. The first tangible result of such increased efforts is the fact that these Governments have already made available considerable supporting contributions towards the UNREF projects. In addition, some Governments are initiating or extending national programmes on behalf of non-settled refugees.

32.       In the Federal Republic of Germany, an ordinance was passed in June 1956 providing for an internal resettlement programme whereby 5,500 refugees within the mandate of the High Commissioner's Office (out of a total number of 135,000 refugees, expellees and evacuees) would be transferred from unemployment areas to regions where there is a labour shortage. These refugees would be provided with both employment and housing.

33.       In Austria, the UNREF programme has served as an example for a permanent solutions programme undertaken by the Federal Government on behalf of naturalized refugees.

34.       Another indirect result of the creation of UNREF is the intensification of the efforts of various private organizations to help specific groups of refugees, often in close co-ordination with the UNREF programme.

35.       In addition to the resettlement and integration of refugees achieved through the various programmes mentioned below, account must be taken of the fact that individual refugees succeed in integrating themselves in the country of their residence through their own efforts or with the help of friends or relatives. A normal absorption process is developing in the favourable atmosphere created by the UNREF programme which tends to reduce, although slowly, the number of non-settled refugees. This process is speeded up by the UNREF programme inasmuch as many refugees whose problems are not solved through UNREF projects benefit from counselling and other services provided to them under UNREF projects.

Intra-European resettlement schemes

36.       The UNREF programme has also stimulated the Governments of European countries of resettlement to take a more active interest in the problem of non-settled refugees, in addition to their direct financial contributions to the Fund. Reference is made in this respect to the Netherlands and Swedish resettlement schemes mentioned in paragraphs 158 to 164 of the High Commissioner's report to the present session of the General Assembly (A/3123/Rev.1). Similar schemes are envisaged at present by the Governments of Belgium and France.

37.       During the year 1955, a total number of 973 refugees have been resettled from countries of first asylum to other European countries under such schemes:

Country of admission
Country of departure	Netherlands	Sweden	United Kingdom a	Total
Austria	157	600	67	824
Germany	-	-	109	109
Greece	-	-	6	6
Italy	16	-	18	34
Total	173	600	200	973

a Two Thousand Scheme.

38.       It is expected that, during the period 1955-1958, approximately 4,700 refugees will be resettled through intra-European resettlement schemes, according to the following breakdown:

Year	Number of refugees
1955	973
1956	1,700
1957	1,350
1958	675
Total (approximately	4,700

The above numbers do not include the resettlement of refugees who come within the category of difficult cases which, as mentioned in paragraphs 110 and 112 of the High Commissioner's report, has also been facilitated by the Governments already referred to, as well as by other European Governments. However, these figures have been taken into account in estimating the number of refugees likely to be transported by the Inter-governmental Committee for European Migration (ICEM).

C. Effects of other programmes

39.       In planning the UNREF programme, it was expected that other inter-governmental and governmental organizations working on behalf of refugees would continue their activities during the lifetime of the Fund, and that the effects of their operations on the refugee situation would be increased through a close co-ordination with the UNREF programme.

Inter-governmental Committee for European Migration

40.       The Office of the High Commissioner has continued its co-operation with the Inter-governmental Committee for European Migration (ICEM) which transported in 1955 a total number of 19,919 refugees presumed to come within the mandate of the High Commissioner's office, as compared with 16,224 refugees in 1954.

41.       On the basis of figures available for the first half-year, it is expected that ICEM will transport in 1956 a total of 30,730 refugees, including approximately 27,000 refugees from countries where the UNREF programme is in operation and some 3,700 refugees from other countries. The main reason for this sizable increase is the impact of the resettlement operations carried out under the United States Refugee Relief Act of 1953. However, as the Act will not continue after the end of 1956, a severe drop in the figures for the resettlement of refugees is anticipated for 1957 and 1958.

42.       According to a detailed forecast elaborated by the High Commissioner's Office in close consultation with ICEM, it is estimated that ICEM will transport during the period 1955-1958 approximately 71,000 refugees, including over 61,000 refugees from countries where the UNREF programme is in operation, and some 10,000 refugees from other countries. The number of over 61,000 refugees mentioned above is likely to include some 24,000 refugees from camps and approximately 37,000 refugees residing outside camps.

United States Escapee Programme

43.       Close co-ordination is also maintained by the Office of the High Commissioner with the United States Escapee Programme (USEP). During the year 1955, 5,488 refugees eligible for USEP assistance have been resettled from the countries where the UNREF programme is in operation. These refugees were transported with the assistance of ICEM and are therefore already included in the number of 19,919 quoted in paragraph 40.

44.       It is expected that sizable numbers of refugees eligible for USEP assistance will be resettled during the period 1956–1958 and, further, that USEP will finance the integration of those refugees eligible for its assistance who cannot be resettled in other countries. It can therefore be assumed that, by the end of 1958, the 29,088 refugees who were eligible for USEP assistance at 1 January 1955 in the countries where the UNREF programme is in operation will be either resettled or integrated into the economies of their countries of residence.

D.        Total potential effect of the UNREF programme and other programmes on the number of non-settled refugees during period 1955-1958

45.       On the basis of actual figures for the year 1955 and of a detailed forecast for further years, if the full UNREF programme could be carried out its impact, together with the other programmes on behalf of refugees, would reduce the number of non-settled refugees by approximately 180,000 persons over the period 1955-1958, according to the following breakdown:

Programme	Reduction of numbers of refugees in camps	Reduction of numbers of non-settled refugees outside camps	Total reduction of numbers of non-settled refugees
1. UNREF programme (direct effects):
(i) Financed from governmental contributions	34,725	26,045	60,770
(ii) Financed from private contribution	4,905	5,700	10,605
Total 1	39,630	31,745	71,375
2. Resettlement programme	26,000	38,600	64, 600
3. Other programmes, indirect effects of UNREF programme, and normal absorption process	13,750	36,000	49,750
Grand total a	78,000	102,000	180,000

a Totals corrected to avoid duplication.

46.       The breakdown of the above figures by country of present residence is as follows:

Country	Reduction of numbers of refugees in camps	Reduction of numbers of non-settled refugees outside camps	Total reduction of numbers of non-settled refugees
Austria	38,800	29,800	68,600
Germany	24,500	29,900	54,400
Greece.	3,400	5,200	8,600
Italy	7,800	6,000	13,800
Other countries	3,500 a	31,100	34,600
Total	78,000	102,000	180,000

a Effect of projects designed to benefit refugees in different countries.

III.        ANALYSIS OF THE EFFET OF THE SHORT-FALL IN GOVERNMENTAL CONTIRIBURIONS TO UNREF

A.         Target for 1955

47        The target for governmental contributions to UNREF was established at $4,200,000 by the Advisory Committee at its fifth session. If the whole of this amount had been contributed, it would have been possible to reduce the number of non-settled refugees through the implementation of permanent solutions projects and of projects for the settlement of difficult cases by 15,445, including 8,820 refugees living in camps, and 6,625 non-settled refugees living outside camps.

48.       Governmental contributions to UNREF for 1955 amounted to only $2,653,697, leaving a short-fall of $1,546,303, or 36.8 per cent. Furthermore, the major part of these contributions were not paid into the Fund until late in that year, or until early in 1956. The High Commissioner was therefore, in accordance with the financial rules for voluntary funds adopted by the Executive |Committee, unable to undertake, before the end of the year, firm commitments for a part of the 1955 contributions.

49.       The first projects included in the UNREF plan of operations for 1955 were authorized for implementation by the UNREF Executive Committee at its first session in May 1955. Between that time and 31 December 1955, funds from governmental contributions were committed against agreements signed or in the last stage of negotiation, in the amount of $1,920,026.[5]

50.       A comparison of the number of refugees (15,445) for whom permanent solutions could have been provided if the financial target for the year 1955 had been met, and the number of refugees (8,885) for whom permanent solutions will be provided with the contributions actually paid into the Fund ($2,653,697), shows that the short-fall in governmental contributions has prevented UNREF from financing solutions for 6,560 refugees, including 3,680 refugees in camps and 2,880 non-settled refugees living outside camps.

B. Target for 1956

51.       The UNREF Executive Committee at its first session approved allocations for 1956 amounting to $4,400,000. At its second session, the Executive Committee decided to establish a combined financial target for 1956 of $5,949,533, as explained in paragraph 19 of the High Commissioner's report (A/3213/Rev.1). This decision, however, was taken as a consequence of the short-fall in governmental contributions for 1955 and, to avoid duplication of figures, the following paragraphs are concerned only with the original target of $4,400,000 for 1956.

52.       Table I indicates that, on 1 September 1956, the governmental contributions to UNREF paid, pledged, promised or expected for 1956 amounted to $2,570,000, which would leave a short-fall of $1,830,000.

53.       Whereas UNREF could finance, if the original financial target for 1956 were reached, permanent solutions for 18,780 refugees, the Fund will be in a position to finance solutions for only 10,400 refugees on the basis of governmental contributions so far paid, pledged, promised or expected. The short-fall in governmental contributions to the original financial target for the year 1956 would therefore result in preventing UNREF from financing solutions for 8,380 refugees, including 3,540 refugees in camps and 4,840 non-settled refugees living outside camps.

C.        Analysis of the effect of the probable shortfall in governmental contributions over the period 1955-1958

Direct effects of the short-fall

54.       On the assumption that, for each of the years 1957-1958, governmental contributions would amount to approximately $2,500,000, it was estimated that the short-fall in governmental contributions would amount to $1,900,000 in 1957, and to $500,000 in 1958, which would result in a total short-fall in governmental contributions of approximately $5,800,000, or 36.3 per cent.

55.       Although the UNREF revised plan of operations (1957) is still in its preliminary stage, and although no detailed plans have so far been approved for 1958, it is still possible to make a forecast of the adverse effects of such a sizable short-fall on the reduction of the numbers of non-settled refugees. Table V indicates that UNREF would be able to finance permanent solutions for only 38,130 refugees, as compared with 60,770 refugees for whom permanent solutions could be found if the target of $16 million were reached.

56.       The over-all direct effect of the short-fall in governmental contributions to UNREF would therefore be that some 22,640 refugees would be deprived of permanent solutions:

Category of refugees	Beneficiaries of full UNREF programme	Beneficiaries of anticipated governmental contributions	Reduction in number of direct beneficiaries through short-fall in governmental contributions
Refugees in camps	34,725	22,525	12,200
Non-settled refugees outside camps	26,045	15,605	10,440
Total	60,770	38,130	22,640

57.       A country-by-country analysis of these figures is included in table V below. The number of refugees who will lose their chance of being firmly settled through the UNREF projects is broken down as follows:

Country	Refugees in camps	Non-settled refugees outside camps	Total
Austria	6,620	5,700	12,320
Germany	1,985	275	2,260
Greece	495	950	1,445
Italy	850	865	1,715
Other countries	2,250 a	2,650	4,900
Total	12,200	10,440	22,640

a Effect projects designed to benefit refugees in different countries.

58.       In assessing the financial effects of a total short-fall of $5,800,000 in governmental contributions to UNREF, account should also be taken of the fact that supporting contributions from within the countries of residence would be correspondingly reduced. Preliminary calculations show that the total value of supporting contributions are likely to be reduced by $15 million, from $40 million to $25 million, thereby reducing the total value of UNREF projects by $21 million, from $56 million to $35 million.

Indirect effects of the short-fall

59.       It has been indicated above that the short-fall in governmental contributions would result in some 22,640 refugees being deprived of permanent solutions through the UNREF programme. It is clearly much more difficult to evaluate the repercussions of a reduced UNREF programme on other international or national programmes undertaken on behalf of refugees. It must be assumed, however, that the indirect effects of UNREF bear relation to the impact which the fund itself can make on the refugee problem, and it must therefore be feared that any reduction in the activity of UNREF will have adverse effects on the other activities which have recently been undertaken on behalf of refugees.

Total effects of the short-fall

60.       Calculations have been made to assess the number of refugees who are likely to be firmly settled during the period 1955-1958, on the assumption that governmental contributions to UNREF would leave a short-fall of approximately $5,800,000. In these calculations, account is taken not only of the direct effect of the UNREF programme, but also of the other programmes carried out on behalf of refugees, as well as of the indirect effect of the UNREF programme, and the normal process of absorption. These calculations, which are based on actual data for 1955 and the first part of 1956 and on a detailed forecast for the rest of the period, are given in tables VI and VII below. They show that, during the period covered, it will probably be possible to settle or resettle 149,140 refugees, including 61,940 refugees in camps and 87,200 refugees living out of camps.

61.       The comparison of these calculations with the estimated total potential effect of the UNREF programme and of the other programmes analysed in section II of the present document indicates that the total effect of the short-fall would consist in permanent solutions being withheld from 30,860 refugees, including 16,060 refugees in camps and 14,800 non-settled refugees outside camps.

Effect of short-fall on the number of refugees in camps

62.       The comparison of the potential effect of the UNREF programme and the anticipated actual effect on the refugees in camps is as follows:

Programme	Potential beneficiaries of UNREF and other programmes	Anticipated number of beneficiaries	Effect of short-fall on number of beneficiaries in camps
1. UNREF programme (direct effects):
(i) Financed from governmental contributions	34,725	22,525	-12,200
(ii) Financed from private contributions	4,905	4,905	-
Total 1	39,630	27,430	-12,200
2. Resettlement programmes	26,000	24,285	-1,715
3. Other programmes, indirect effects of UNREF programme, and normal absorption process	13,750	11,440	-2,310
Grand total a	78,000	61,940	-16,060

a Totals corrected to avoid duplication.

Effect of the short-fall on non-settled refugees outside camps

63.       For non-settled refugees outside camps, the comparison of the total potential effect of UNREF and of the other programmes and of the estimated actual effect is shown on the following page.

Programme	Potential beneficiaries of UNREF programmes	Anticipated number of beneficiaries	Effect of short-fall on number of beneficiaries outside camps
1. UNREF programme (direct effects):
(i) Financed from governmental contributions.	26,045	15,605	-10,440
(ii) Financed from private contributions	5,700	5,700	-
Total 1	31,745	21,305	-10,440
2. Resettlement programmes	38,600	37,285	-1,315
3. Other programmes, indirect effects of UNREF programme, and normal absorption process	36,000	37,285	-3,305
Grand total a	102,000	87,200	-14,800

a Totals corrected to avoid duplication.

Country analysis

64.       The country analysis of the total effect of the short-fall would be as follows:

Country	Refugees in camps	Non-settled refugees outside camps	Total
Austria	7,400	7,560	14,960
Germany	3,900	1,560	5,460
Greece	520	1,050	1,570
Italy	1,090	1,360	2,450
Other countries	3,150 a	3,270	6,420
Total	16,060	14,800	30,860

a Effect of projects designed to benefit refugees in different countries.

IV.        PROBABLE NUMBER OF NON-SETTLED REFUGEES WITHIN THE MANDATE OF UNHCR AT THE END OF 1958

Dynamic character of the refugee problem

65.       To complete this analysis of the effect of the short-fall in governmental contributions to UNREF, it may be useful to give some indications concerning the probable number of non-settled refugees within the mandate of UNHCR at the end of 1958.

66.       It may be seen from a comparison of tables II and VII that, on the assumption that governmental contributions to UNREF would amount to $10,200,000 only, leaving a short-fall of $5,800,000, and on the assumption that the estimates concerning the indirect effects of UNREF and the effects of other programmes prove valid, the number of non-settled refugees would be likely to be reduced, between 1 January 1955 and 31 December 1958, and 292,450 to approximately 143,000, according to the following breakdown:

	Number of non-settled refugees at 1 January 1955	Number of refugees to be settled during the period 1955-1958
Refugees in camps	85,050	61,940
Non-settled refugees outside camps	207,400	87,200
Total	292,450	149,140

67.       It must be emphasized that the figure of 149,140 refugees to be settled refers to the reduction in the numbers of those refugees who were not settled as of 1 January 1955. The refugee population is, however, not a static population and apart from the factors which tend to reduce the number of non-settled refuges, various factors must be taken into account which tend to increase their number, such as new arrivals of refugees from countries of origin, increases of the number of refugees sur place, and the natural increase of the refugee population (excess of births over deaths).

68.       In 1955, the only year of the period considered for which data are at present available, there were 6,140 new arrivals and a natural increase of 2,200.

69.       It is difficult to forecast the number of new refugees who will seek asylum during the years 1956, 1957 and 1958. Data available for the first six months of 1956 indicate, however, that the number of new arrivals shows an upward trend. On the other hand, the majority of new refugees come within the scope of the United States Escapee Programme which, if it continues its operations during the remaining period of the UNREF programme, will probably be able to resettle or integrate them.

Estimated number of refugees in camps at the end of 1958

70.       The calculations in table VIII below take into account all the movements which may affect the number of refugees in camps during period 1955-1958. This table, which is based on the assumption of a short-fall in governmental contributions to UNREF of $5,800,000, shows that the number of refugees living in camps will tend to increase during the period by an estimated 17,095 persons, largely on account of an expected number of 14,700 new arrivals.

71.       The decrease in the camp population within the mandate of UNHCR is estimated at 79,145, mainly as a result of integration in the local economy through UNREF and other programmes (37,655), resettlement (24,285) and naturalization (15,680). The relatively large number of refugees in camps who are likely to be naturalized consists to a great extent of refugees of German ethnic origin residing in camps in Austria, to which reference is made in paragraph 226 of the High Commissioner's report (A/3123/Rev.1.).

72.       The results of the various movements affecting the refugees population in camps would be a net decrease of 62,050 refugees, leaving as the end of 1958 an expected camp population of 23,000 refugees for whom it will not be possible to finance permanent solutions projects. Attention may be drawn in this respect to paragraph 62 of the present document where it was shown that one of the effects of the short-fall in governmental contributions to UNREF would be that approximately 16,000 refugees in camps would be deprived of permanent solutions to their problems.

Estimated number of non-settled refugees outside camps at the end of 1958

73.       Calculations similar to those in table VIII are given in table IX in respect of non-settled refugees outside camps. It is expected that the non-settled group outside camps will tend to increase during the period considered by 30,490 refugees, largely on account of new arrivals estimated at 14,270, but also because of a natural increase of 5,820 and a number of 7.170 newly registered refugees sur place; the major part of the latter have been identified during 1995 on the mainland of China.

74.       On the other hand, the number of non-settled refugees outside camps will tend to decrease by 113,490, mainly due to integration in the local economy through UNREF and other programmes (49,915) resettlement overseas (37,285) and naturalization (21,560). Most of the refugees who will acquire a new nationality are, as in the case of the camp population, refugees of German ethnic origin residing in Austria.

75.       The balance of increases and decreases is estimated to result in a net reduction of the number of non-settled refugees outside camps by 83,000, which would leave at the end of 1958 a group of 124,400 non-settled refugees outside camps for whom it will not be possible to finance permanent solutions projects.

Over-all figures

76.       The estimated total number of 147,400 refugees who would still be in the non-settled categories at the end of 1958 is broken down as follows:

Country	Refugees in camps	Non-settled refugees outside camps	Total non-settled refugees
Austria	7,600	28,500	36,100
Germany	11,700	46,900	58,600
Greece	600	1,100	1,700
Italy	3,100	8,100	11,200
Other countries	—	39,800	39,800
Total	23,000	124,400	147,400

V.         CONCLUSION

77.       In the previous sections of the previous document it has been shown that the main effects of the anticipated short-fall in contributions to UNREF will be that:

(a)  The number of non-settled refugees who will as a consequence fail to find permanent solutions for their problems is estimated at some 30,000;

(b)  There are likely to be at the end of 1958 approximately 147,000 non-settled refugees within the mandate of the UNHCR, including 23,000 refugees still living in camps, for whom it will not be possible to finance permanent solutions.

78.       The ratio between the number of non-settled refugees who will still remain in camps at the end of 1958 and the number who live outside camps will depend to a great extent on the emphasis which is given to the UNREF programme during 1957 and 1958.

79.       In the this connexion, the UNREF Executive Committee at its third session drew special attention to the necessity of a policy for the systematic closure of camps being initiated, and requested the High Commissioner to consult with the Governments of the countries of residence on the additional measures required to achieve this and, at the same time, to find adequate solutions for the refugees still living in camps.

80.       The Governments of the main countries of residence have shown themselves to be in favour of this proposal. If the plans which are being negotiated can be carried out, it is expected that in the Federal Republic of Germany eight camps will be closed during the current year, and seventeen additional camps will be closed during 1957. In Austria nine camps, housing approximately 5,000 refugees, have been selected for closure. In Greece, the Government has stated its intention, with the help of the UNREF programme, of closing all camps and refugee centres before the end of 1957. In Italy, however, it is unlikely, in view of the considerable influx of new refugees, that the small number of existing camps can be reduced in the immediate future.

81.       On 1 January 1955, there were 157 refugee camps in Europe housing refugees within the mandate of UNHCR and it is likely that there will be less than 100 at the end of 1958 if the UNREF programme continues at its present rate.

82.       It must be emphasized that the reduction of the camp population which has been outlined in the present document will only be achieved if there continues to be in the UNREF programme a concentration on the problems of refugees living in camps, and if the United States Escapee Programme is able to finance permanent solutions by the end of 1958 for all the refugees who are its concern, and particularly for those living in camps in Greece and Italy. Another assumption which must be proved valid is that the figures for the overseas resettlement of refugees which have been given in the present document are proved correct by the end of 1958.

83.       If these assumptions prove correct, and the economic conditions which are especially favourable at the present time for the absorption of refugees into the economies of their countries of residence continue, there is every prospect that the number of refugees still living in camps can be reduced to 23,000 by the end of 1958.

84.       That there will still be a relatively large number of non-settled refugees at the end of 1958, and that a final solution to the camp problem will not be achieved by that date, is partly due to the short-fall in governmental contributions to the UNREF programme, and partly to the fact that this reduced programme has had to be carried out in three-and–a-half years as compared with the original five years. But, as a contributory cause, it is impossible to ignore the dynamic aspects of the refugee problem which have been outlined in the present document, and in particular the continuing number of new refugees who seek asylum.

STATISTICAL ANNEX

EXPLANATIONS OF SYMBOLS

Category not applicable	.
Data not available
Nil or negligible	-
Provisional estimate	*

Table I GOVERNMENTAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO UNREF IN 1955 AND 1956

Country	1955	1956
	Contributions received $	Contributions received promised pledged and expected $
Australia	167,839.20	–
Austria	2,200.–	3,000.–
Belgium	160,000.–	200,000.–
Brazil	–	15,000.–
Canada	126,855.47	125,000. –
	10,000.–	–
Colombia	72,390.33	72,390.–
Dominican Republic	–	5,000.–
France	142,857.–	274,120.–
Germany Federal Republic of	23,809.52	23,806.–
Israel	5,000.–	–
Korea	2,000.–	–
Lichtenstein	467.29	467.–
Luxembourg	2,000.–	3,000.–
Netherlands	359,157.90	96,000.–
New Zealand	28,000.–	56,000.–
Norway	83,998.32	84,000.–
Philippines	–	2,500.–
Sweden	115,986.86	115,987.–
Switzerland	116,822.43	116,822.–
Turkey	4,285.71	–
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland	224,026.88	224,000.-a
United Stated of America	1,006,000.–	912,000.-b
Venezuela	–	20,000.-
Other contributions expected	–	220,000.-
Total c	2,653,696.91	2,570,000.-d

a The Government of the United Kingdom has pledged an equivalent of $280 000, of which 20 per cent, i,e., $56,000, would be paid into the Fund only if the total governmental contributions for 1956 reach $3,250,000. For this reason, only the amount of $224,000 has been included in the list of governmental contributions.

b The United States Government has made a special contribution of $194,000 to finance UNREF projects to benefit difficult cases and handicapped refugees among the foreign refugee population in Austria. In addition, the Congress of the United States has appropriated $1,900,000 to UNREF for 1956 and part of 1957. These contributions will be paid to the fund on a matching basis, and it is expected that this will result during the year 1956 in an actual contribution of at least $718,908.

c The totals do not include contributions in kind.

d Contributions amounting to $1,156,128 had been actually received at 1 September 1956.

Table II ESTIMATED NUMBER OF NON-SETTLED REFUGEES AT 1 JANUARY 1955

Country	Refugees in camps a	Non-settled refugees outside camps	Total non-settled refugees
Austria	46,700	60,000	106,700
Belgium	–	11,000	11,000
China	–	14,000	14,000
France	–	37,000	37,000
Germany	29,750	65,000	94,750
Greece	2,700	5,700	8,400
Italy	5,900	13,000	18,900
Near and Middle East b	–	1,700	1,700
Total	85,050	207,400	292,450

a See for details Table III.

b Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey.

Table III. REFUGEES IN CAMPS AT 1 JANUARY 1955

Country	Number of camps	"Ethnic" refugees	Foreign refugees	Total
Austria: Official camps	58	29,600	7,100	36,700
Unofficial camps	-	9,050*	950*	10,000
Total	58	38,650*	8,050*	46,700
Germany	78	-	29,750	29,750
Greece	15	1,960	740	2,700
Italy	6	-	5,900	5,900
Grand total	157 a	40,610*	44,440*	85,050

a Excluding unofficial camps in Austria.

Table IV ESTIMATED NUMBER OF REFUGEES TO BE FIRMLY SETTLED UNDER THE UNREF PROGRAMME 1955-1958 IF FULL TARGET WERE REACHED a

Country of present residence	Plan of operations and target	1955 $US 4,400,000	1956 $US 4,400,000	1957 $ US 4,400,000	1958b $US 3,000,000	1955-1958e $US 16,000,000
		Permanent solutions	Settlement difficult cases	Total	Permanent solutions	Settlement of difficult cases	Total	Permanent solutions	Settlement of difficult cases	Total	Permanent solutions	Settlement of difficult cases	Total	Permanent solutions	Settlement of difficult cases	Total
I. Refugees in camps
Austria	3,464	437	3,901	3,606	321	3,926	4,775	310	5,085	4,940	132	5,072	16,785	1,200	17,985
Germany	1,818	-	1,828	1,809	-	1,809	2,770	-	2,770	3,950	-	3,9500	10,345	-	10,345
Greece	691	7	698	347	35	382	150	30	180	-	-	-	1,190	70	1,260
Italy	793	197	990	1,252	114	1,366	80	20	100	60	20	80	2,185	350	2,535
Various
Countries c	1,402	10	1,412	1,090	48	1,138	-	25	25	-	25	25	2,490	110	2,600
Total I	8,168	651	8,819	8,104	518	8,622	7,775	385	8,160	8,950	177	9,127	32,995	1,730	34,725
II. Refugees outside camps
Austria	4,157	44	4,201	4,131	13	4,144	2,295	75	2,370	60	40	100	10,645	170	10,815
Belgium	231	-	231	1,300	-	1,300	360	-	360	-	-	-	1,890	-	1,890
China	470	149	619	1,400	100	1,500	760	140	900	690	110	800	3,320	500	3,820
France	-	-	-	786	60	846	575	125	700	286	82	368	1,645	270	1,915
Germany	252	-	252	305	-	305	1,030	-	1,030	50	-	50	1,635	-	1,635
Greece	129	100	229	629	87	716	580	180	760	118	87	205	1,455	455	1,910
Italy	281	65	346	458	-	458	880	95	975	226	61	287	1,845	220	2,065
Near and
Middle East d	-	140	140	-	152	152	108	95	203	67	20	87	175	405	580
Various countries c	300	307	607	696	42	738	-	40	40	-	30	30	995	420	1,415
Total II	5,890	805	6,625	9,705	454	10,159	6,588	750	7,338	1,497	430	1,927	23,605	2,440	26,045
Grand Total	13,988	1,456	15,444	17,809	972	18,781	14,363	1,135	15,498	10,447	607	11,054	56,600	4,170	60,770

a This table indicates the numbers of refugees who would benefit from the UNREF programme if the full target for governmental contributions were reached in each single year. The numbers of refugees benefiting from UNREF projects financed from private contributions are not included.

b Preliminary planning figures.

c Projects drawn up to benefit refugees in unspecified countries or in more than one country.

d Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey.

e Totals rounded off to the nearest 5.

Table V UNREF PROGRAMME 1955-1958: Analysis of projects to be financed from governmental contributions a

Refugees in camps	Full target	Projects likely to be implemented with estimated governmental contributions	Projects corresponding to estimated short-fall in governmental contributions
	Estimated number of refugees to be firmly settled	Estimated number of refugees to be firmly settled	Estimated number of refugees to be firmly settled
	UNREF allocations $US		Refugees outside camps	Total	UNREF contributions $US	Refugees in camps	Refugees outside camps	Total	UNREF contributions $US	Refugees in camps	Refugees outside camps	Total
I. permanent solutions
Austria	4,900,000	16,785	10,645	27,430	2,917,024	10,510	5,005	15,515	1,982,976	6,275	5,640	11,915
Belgium	124,000	-	1,890	1,890	104,000	-	1,690	1,690	20,000	-	200	200
France	580,000	-	1,645	1,645	313,664	-	815	815	266,336	-	830	830
Germany	2,140,000	10,345	1,635	11,980	1,565,944	8,360	1,360	9,720	574,056	1,985	275	2,260
Greece	2,001,066	1,190	1,455	2,645	1,121,777	720	670	1,390	879,289	470	785	1,255
Italy	1,130,000	2,185	1,845	4,030	670,332	1,525	1,045	2,570	459,668	660	800	1,460
Near and Middle East b	90,000	-	175	175	90,000	-	175	175	-	-	-	-
Various countries	330,000	1,580	610	2,190	46,600	260	160	420	283,500	1,320	450	1,770
Total I	11,295,066	32,085	19,900	51,985	6,829,241	21,375	10,920	32,295	4,465,825	10,710	8,980	19,690
II. Settlement of difficult cases
Austria	733,500	1,200	170	1,370	506,978	855	110	965	226,522	345	60	405
China	420,000	-	500	500	253,400	-	295	295	166,600	-	205	205
France	220,000	-	270	270	155,100	-	185	185	64,900	-	85	85
Greece	350,000	70	455	525	218,391	45	290	335	131,609	25	165	190
Italy	401,000	350	220	570	224,519	160	155	315	176,481	190	65	255
Near and Middle East b	263,500	-	405	405	155,250	-	240	240	108,250	-	165	165
Various countries.	164,664	110	115	225	129,164	90	90	180	35,500	20	25	45
Total II	2,552,664	1,730	2,135	3,865	1,642,802	1,150	1,365	2,515	909,862	580	770	1,350
III. Shanghai operation	824,178	-	3,320	3,320	824,178	-	3,320	3,320	-	-	-	-
IV. Emergency aid c	297,265	.	.	.	297,265	.	.	.	-	.	.	.
V. Administrative expenses	630,211	.	.	.	630,211	.	.	.	-	.	.	.
VI. Unallocated	400,616	910	690	1,600	.	.	.	.	400,616	910	690	1,600
GRAND TOTAL	16,000,000	34,725	26,045	60,770	10,223,697	22,525	15,605	38,140	5,776,304	12,200	10,440	22,640

a Figures for 1957 are based on allocations approved by he UNREF Executive Committee at its third session; figures for 1958 are preliminary planning figures.

b Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey.

c Only refugees to be firmly settled being taken into account, the numbers of refugees benefiting from emergency aid projects are not included.

Table VI NUMBER OF REFUGEES LIKELY TO BE FIRMLY SETTLED DURING THE PEFIOD 1955-1958 a Analysis by year b

Programme	1955	1956	1957	1958	Total
I. Refugees in camps
1	UNREF programme (direct effects):
	(i) Financed from estimated governmental contributions	5,140	5,080	4,960	7,345	22,525
	(ii) Financed from estimated private contributions	2,170	735	1,150	850	4,905
	Total	7,310	5,815	6,110	8,195	27,430
2	Resettlement programmes c	7,350	11,480	3,465	1,990	24,285
3	Other programmes, indirect effects of UNREF programme and normal absorption process	3,425	3,420	2,560	2,035	11,440
	TOTAL I e	17,600	20,060	12,070	12,210	61,940
II. Refugees outside camps
1	UNREF programme (direct effects):
	(i) Financed from estimated governmental contributions	3,745	5,320	4,835	1,705	15,605
	(ii) Financed from estimated private contributions	2,435	765	1,350	1,150	5,700
	Total I	6,180	6,085	6,185	2,855	21,305
2	Resettlement programmes c	11,800	16,030	5,435	4,020	37,285
3	Other programmes, d indirect effects of UNREF programme and normal absorption process	7,600	9,180	8,200	7,715	32,695
	TOTAL II e	24,870	29,790	18,820	13,790	87,200
III. All refugees
1.	UNREF programme (direct effects):
	(i) Financed from estimated governmental contributions	8,885	10,400	9,795	9,050	38,130
	(ii) Financed from estimated private contributions	4,605	1,500	2,500	2,000	10,605
	Total 1	13,490	11,900	12,295	11,050	48,735
2.	Resettlement programmes c	19,150	27,510	8,900	6,010	61,570
3.	Other programmes, d indirect effects of UNREF programme and normal absorption process	11,025	12,600	10,760	9,750	44,135
	GRAND TOTAL e	42,470	49,780	30,890	26,000	149,140

a Estimates based on the assumption that governmental contributions to UNREF would amount to approximately $ 5,800,000.

b Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December are included in the programme relating to the respective year.

c Refugees transported or to be transported by ICEM including refugees eligible for USEP assistance and refugees benefiting from UNREF projects or from other resettlement schemes sponsored by UNHCR.

d Including USEP local integration schemes.

e Totals corrected to avoid duplication.

Table VII NUMBER OF REFUGEES LIKELY TO BE FIRMLY SETTLED DURING THE PERIOD 1955-19585a Analysis by country of present residence

Programme	Austria	Belgium	China	France	Germany	Greece	Italy	Near and Middle East b	Various countries	Total
		I. Refugees in camps
1. UNREF programme (direct effects):		-
(i) Financed from estimated governmental contributions	11,365	-	-	-	8,360	765	1,685	-	350	22,525
(ii) Financed from estimated private contributions	3,265	-	-	-	1,250	290	100	-	-	4,905
Total 1	14,630	-	-	-	9,610	1,055	1,785	-	350	27,430
2. Resettlement programmes c	14,020	-	-	-	4,140	1,360	4,765	-	80	24,285
3. Other programmes, d indirect effects of UNREF programme and normal absorption process	2,960	-	-	-	6,850	470	1,165	-	-	11,440
Total I e	31,400	-	-	-	20,600	2,880	6,710	-	350	61,940

 

	II. Refugees outside camps
1. UNREF programme (direct effects):
(i) Financed from estimated governmental contributions	5,115	1,690	3,605	1,000	1,360	960	1,200	415	250	15,605
(ii) Financed from estimated private contributions	2,825	-	-	-	1,030	1,345	500	-	-	5,700
Total 1	7,940	1,690	3,615	1,000	2,390	2,305	1,700	415	250	21,305
2. Resettlement programmes c	8,730	3,890	3,710	4,830	12,350	1,020	1,875	880	85	37,285
3. Other programmes, d indirect effects of UNREF programme and normal absorption process	5,595	2,640	-	8,490	13,600	825	1,415	130	-	32,695
TOTAL II e	22,240	8,220	3,710	14,320	28,340	4,150	4,640	1,330	250	87,200

 

	III. All refugees
1. UNREF programme (direct effects):
(i) Financed from estimated governmental contributions	16,480	1,690	3,615	1,000	9,720	1,725	2,885	415	600	38,130
(ii) Financed from estimated private contributions	6,090	-	-	-	2,280	1,635	600	-	-	10,605
Total 1	22,570	1,690	3,615	1,000	12,000	3,360	3,485	415	600	48,735
2. Resettlement programmes c	22,750	3,890	3,710	4,830	16,490	2,380	6,640	880	165	61,570e
3. Other programmes, d indirect effects of UNREF programme and normal absorption process	8,555	2,640	-	8,490	20,450	1,290	2,580	130	-	44,135
Grand Total E	53,640	8,220	3,710	14,320	48,940	7,030	11,350	1,330	600	149,140

a Estimates based on the assumption that governmental contributions to UNREF would amount to approximately $10,200,000, leaving a short-fall of approximately $ 5,800,000. Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December 1958 are included.

b Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Syria and Turkey.

c Refugees transported or to be transported by ICEM, including refugees eligible for USEP assistance and refugees benefiting from UNREF projects or from other resettlement schemes sponsored by UNHCR.

d Including USEP local integration schemes.

e Totals corrected to avoid duplication.

Table VIII. ESTIMATED MOVEMENT OF REFUGEE CAMP POPULATION DURING THE PERIOD 1955-1958 e

Category	Austria	Germany	Greece	Italy	Various countries b	Total
1.	Number of non-settlement refugees at 1 January 1955	46,700	29,750	2,700	5,900	–	85,050
2.	Increases 1955-1958
	(i) New arrivals from countries of origin	5,450	1,830	1,820	5,600	–	14,700
	(ii) Other refugees immigrants c	–	900	–	–	–	900
	(iii) New refugees sur place d	.	.	.	.	–	.
	(iv) Natural increase (birth less deaths)	630	520	40	95	–	1,285
	(v) Other movements	40	150	20	–	–	210
	Total increase	6,120	3,400	1,880	5,695	–	17,095
3.	Decreases 1955-1958
	(i) Repatriation	920	500	320	440	–	2,180
	(ii) Acquisition of a new nationality e	14,190	160	620	710	–	15,680
	(iii) Emigration f	14,020	4,140	1,360	4,765	80	24,285i
	(iv) Local settlement g	17,380	16,460	1,520	1,945	350	37,655
	(v) Other movements	360	190	160	635	–	1,345
	Total decrease	45,220i	21,450	3,980	8,495	.	79,145i
4.	Net variation 1955-1958	-39.100	-18.050	-2.100	-2.800	.	-62.050
5.	Number of non-settled refugees at 31 December 1958 h	7.600	11.700	600	3.100	-	23.000

a Estimates based on the assumption that governmental contributions to UNREF will amount to approximately $10,200,000,leaving a short-fall of approximately $5,800,000

b This column is included to take account of UNREF projects to benefit refugees in camps in unspecified countries.

c Refugees immigrating from other countries of asylum.

d Foreigners who have been residing in the country for some time and who acquire refugees status during the period considered.

e Including mainly naturalization in the country of residence and acquisition of a new nationality through marriage.

f Figures taken over from table VII.1.2.

g Figures taken over from table VII.I.1+3, minus resettlement under the UNREF programme. Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December 1958 are included.

h Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December 1958 are excluded.

i Total corrected to avoid duplication.

Table IX ESTIMATED MOVEMENT OF NON-SETTLED REFUGEE POPULATION OUTSIDE CAMPS DURING THE PERIOD 1955-1958 a

	Category	Austria	Belgium	China	France	Germany	Greece	Italy	Near and Middle East b	Various countries c	Total
1.	Number of non-settled refugees at 1 January 1955	60,666	11,000	14,000	37,000	65,000	5,700	13,000	1,700	-	207,400
2.	Increase 1955-1958
	(i) New arrivals from countries of origin	3,830	680	-	1,160	8,320	30	250		-	14,270
	(ii) Other refugee immigrants d	-	740	-	220	570	-	-	-	-	1,530
	(iii) New refugees sur place e	.	200	5,700	1,150	.	.	.	120	-	7,170
	(iv) Natural increase (births less deaths)	1,500	260	-290	1,110	2,630	150	400	60	-	5,820
	(v) Other movements	10	350	-	-	1,330	10	-		-	1,700
	Total increase	5,340	2,230	5,410	3,640	12,850	190	650	180	-	30,490
3.	Decreases 1955-1958
	(i)Repatriation	620	110	3,800	1,280	1,100	60	220	50	-	7,240
	(ii) Acquisition of a new nationality f	15,690	400	-	1,930	1,700	740	1,000	100	-	21,560
	(iii)Emigration g	8,730	3,890	3,710	4,830	12,350	1,020	1,875	880	85	37,285 j
	(iv)Local settlement h	13,510	4,330	-	9,490	15,990	3,130	2,765	450	250	49,915
	(v) Other movements	-360	-	100	10	-190	-160	-310		-	-910
	Total decrease	36,840 j	8,730	7,610	17,540	30,950	4,790	5,550	1,480	.	113,490 j
4.	Net variation 1955/1958	-31,500	-6,500	-2,200	-13,900	-18,100	-4,600	-4,900	-1,300	.	-83,000
5.	Number of non-settled refugees at 31 December 1958 ii	28,500	4,500	11,800	23,100	46,900	1,100	8,100	400	-	124,400

a Estimates based on the assumption that governmental contributions to UNREF will amount to approximately $10,200,000, leaving a short-fall of approximately $5,800,000.

b Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey.

c This column is included to take account of UNREF projects to benefit refugees in unspecified countries.

d Refugees immigrating from other countries of asylum.

e Foreigners who have been residing in the country for some time and who acquire refugee status during the period considered.

f Including mainly naturalization in the country of residence and acquisition of a new nationality through marriage.

g Figures taken over from table VVI.II.2.

h Figures taken over from table VII,II,1+3, minus resettlement under the UNREF programme. Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December 1958 are included.

i Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December 1958 are excluded.

j Total corrected to avoid duplication.

Table X. ESTIMATED OVER-ALL MOVEMENT OF NON-SETTLED REFUGEE POPULATION DURING THE PERIOD 1955-1958a

	Category	Austria	Belgium	China	France	Germany	Greece	Italy	Near and Middle East b	Various countries c	Total
1.	Number of non-settled refugees at 1 January 1955	106,700	11,000	14,000	37,000	94,750	8,400	18,900	1,700	-	292,450
2.	Increases 1955-1958
	(i) New arrivals from countries of origin	9,280	680	-	1,160	10,150	1,850	5,850		-	28,970
	(ii) Other refugee immigrants d	-	740	-	220	1,470	-	-	-	-	2,430
	(iii) New refugees sur place e	.	200	5,700	1,150	.	.	.	120	-	7,170
	(iv) Natural increase (births less deaths)	2,130	260	-290	1,110	3,150	190	495	60	-	7,105
	(v) Other movements	50	350	-	-	1,480	30	-		-	1,910
	Total increase	11,460	2,230	5,410	3,640	16,250	2,070	6,345	180	-	47,585
3.	Decreases 1955-1958
	(i) Repatriation	1,540	110	3,800	1,280	1,600	380	660	50	-	9,420
	(ii)Acquisition of a new nationality f	29,880	400	-	1,930	1,860	1,360	1,710	100	-	37,240
	(iii) Emigration g	22,750	3,890	3,710	4,830	16,490	2,380	6,640	880	165	61,570 j
	(iv) Local settlement h	30,890	4,330	-	9,490	32,450	4,650	4,710	450	600	87,570
	(v) Other movements	-	-	100	10	-	-	325		-	435
	Total decrease	82,060 j	8,730	7,610	17,540	52,400	8,770	14,045	1,480	.	192,635 i
4.	Net variation 1955-1958	-70.600	-6,500	-2,200	-13,900	-36,150	-6,700	-7,700	-1,300	.	-145,050
5.	Number of non/settled refugees at 31 December 1958 i	36.100	4,500	11,800	23,100	58,600	1,700	11,200	400	-	147,400

a Estimates based on the assumption that governmental contributions to UNREF will amount to approximately

$10, 200,000, leaving a short-fall of approximately $ 5,800,000. Consolidation of tables VIII and IX.

b Egypt, Iran, Lebanon, Syria and Turkey.

c This column is included to take account of UNREF projects to benefit refugees in unspecified countries.

d Refugees immigration from other countries of asylum.

e Foreigners who have been residing in the country for some time and who acquire refugee Status during the period considered.

f Including mainly naturalization in the country of residence and acquisition of a new nationality through marriage.

g Figures taken over from table VII,III,2.

h Figures taken over from table VII,III, 1+3, minus resettlement under the UNREF programme. Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December 1958 are included.

i Refugees in the course of being settled at 31 December 1958 are included.

j Total corrected to avoid duplication.

Addendum 2 SITUATION OF REFUGEES IN LATIN-AMERICAN COUNTRIES

1.         In paragraphs 169 to 171 of the annual report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to the General Assembly 1 reference is made to the visit which the High Commissioner paid in April and the first part of May 1959 to Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Peru Uruguay and Venezuela. The High Commissioner, Accompanied by his representative, was received by the Chiefs of State and Ministers for Foreign Affairs of these countries, who expressed their sincere interest in the refugee problem and a desire to contribute towards the carrying out of the UNREF programme.

2.         The High Commissioner also visited the representatives of the Holy See and the leaders of the Catholic Church, which has always shown considerable interest in the promotion of immigration and assistance to refugees in these countries. Renewed assurances of co-operation were received by the High Commissioner in the course of his visit. Close contact had already been established by the High Commissioner's representative in Latin America with the newly created permanent secretariat of the Latin American Catholic hierarchy, which has its seat in Bogota and is particularly concerned with the co-ordination of Catholic activities in the field of immigration and assistance to refugees.

3.         The High Commissioner discussed with the officials of the Government visited, with other personalities and with the international and national voluntary agencies concerned, the possibilities of bringing about a broader participation of those countries in the solution of the refugee problem.

4.         Press conferences were arranged in the capitals of the countries visited, as well as public lectures and television and radio interviews, by government departments, United Nations Information Centres, United Nations Associations and private bodies. At these conferences the High Commissioner had an opportunity of explaining the UNREF programme and of stating the principal objectives of his visit, namely, to promote the continued admission of refugees and, if possible, an increase in the number of those admitted; to request Governments, as a special contribution towards the UNREF programme, to admit a limited number of refugee families selected from among those still living in camps; to solicit contributions to UNREF; and to obtain additional accessions to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees.

5.         The authorities of most countries visited were generally in favour of admitting refugees, in particular refugee families coming from camps, and of facilitating the reunion of refugee families with the heads of those families already resettled in America. The authorities fully shared the High Commissioner's interest in securing, through careful selection and adequate reception and placement facilities, the satisfactory resettlement of comparatively small numbers of refugees, rather than the promotion of migration of larger numbers under less favourable conditions. The High Commissioner explained the procedure adopted by the Government of Sweden for the selection of refugee families in camps, and suggested that similar arrangements might be made by Latin American Governments.

6.         With regard to the reception and placement of refugees in the various countries visited, the High Commissioner acquainted himself directly with the commendable efforts being made by governmental bodies, international and national voluntary agencies working in Latin America, and national Catholic immigration bodies. He considered that still better results could be obtained if the international and national voluntary agencies had more funds at their disposal for reception and placement activities, as well as for financing or guaranteeing loans for the establishment of refugees in trades, crafts and agriculture. A closer co-ordination between the various agencies and organizations working on behalf of refugees was suggested by the High Commissioner in some of the countries visited, as a means of making their work more effective and facilitating their co-ordination with the governmental immigration authorities.

7.         The requests that contributions to UNREF should be considered were sympathetically received and, while several Governments made or confirmed pledges, others offered to consider making contributions in the immediate future.

8.         With regard to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, no distinction is made under the legislation in force in Latin American countries between refugees and other immigrants, and all newly admitted aliens enjoy practically the same status and are given the same possibilities as nationals. The High Commissioner, therefore, in suggesting to Governments that they consider acceding to the Convention, stressed that through accession they would not only strengthen the position of refugees in international law, but would also give them the advantage of a uniform travel document provided for by the Convention, which would then replace the different types of aliens' passports that were at present issued in most Latin American countries.

9.         As stated in previous reports, several Latin American Governments not parties to the Convention on the Status of Refugees have decided to recognize the validity of travel document issued in accordance with that Convention by the parties thereto. Up to 1 September 1956, the following Latin American Governments had undertaken to recognize such travel documents: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua and Venezuela. Cuba has given limited recognition to documents held by refugees in transit.

10.       Further details concerning the situation of refugees in each of the countries visited by the High Commissioner are given in the subsequent paragraphs.

Argentina

11.       Although the new Government has continued the policy of limiting immigration to the reunion of families with heads of families already established in Argentina and to the admission of skilled workers or persons to be settled away form the large centres, the authorities have expressed their goodwill towards the UNREF programme by giving consideration to the admission of limited numbers of refugee families from camps in Europe. The abrogation in September 1956 of two decrees of 1952, barring new immigrants from establishing themselves within 100 Kilometres of Buenos Aires and other large cities, and prohibiting during their first three years in the country the exercise of any activity other than that declared on their visa applications, will greatly facilitate the admission of refugees, particularly on the family reunion basis. The accession of Argentina to the 1951 Convention is being considered by the Foreign Office. In view of the large number of organizations working on behalf of refugees, the High Commissioner suggested the advisability of a closer co-ordination of their activities. The law of 28 September 1954 on the automatic naturalization of aliens who have resided for a certain period of time in the country and have not declared their intention of maintaining their nationality of origin has been suspended by a recent decree on the grounds that it is incompatible with the Constitution of 1853. Pending the enactment of a new naturalization law, requests for naturalization will be considered in accordance with Law 346 of 1869. From February 1952 to June 1956, 1,030 refugees, transported by the Migration Committee, were admitted to Argentina.

Bolivia

12.       The Bolivian Government has reiterated its interest in the admission of refugees to be resettled in agriculture and industry. There are still, however, certain difficulties for the financing of resettlement in agriculture, and for reception and placement arrangements.

Brazil

13.       The announced contribution $US 15,000 to UNREF has been paid by Brazil since the visit of the High Commissioner. Furthermore, steps have been taken for the submission to Congress of the bill for ratification of the 1951 Convention, of which Brazil is one of the original signatories. The question of the admission of refugee families from camps in Europe was thoroughly discussed by the High Commissioner with the President of the Institute of Immigration and Colonization, and it is hoped that the Institute will soon instruct its representatives in Europe to visit refugee camps and selected limited numbers of families for resettlement in Brazil. Individual admission of refugees, and particularly of European refugees from China, is temporarily restricted pending consideration by the Institute and the Ministry for Foreign Affairs of their future policy on the subject. From February 1952 to June 1956, 7,350 refugees, transported by the Migration Committee, were admitted to Brazil.

Chile

14.       The Chilean authorities announced to the High Commissioner their intention of presenting the 1951 Convention for ratification at the 1956 session of Congress. In view of certain difficulties in the issuing of Chilean ‘'aliens' passports'' to certain categories of refugees wishing to leave Chile, the Foreign Office is considering the establishment of a special travel document for refugees, pending the ratification of the 1951 Convention. The Directorate of Immigration which maintains its policy of admitting small numbers of carefully chosen refugees, is examining the possibility of selecting a few refugee families from camps.

15.       The High Commissioner was impressed with the installations of the Immigrants' Hostel established by the Government. This hostel is maintained by the Migration Committee and by the Chilean Catholic Institute of Migration, and is administered by the latter. It constitutes an excellent example of co-operation between inter-governmental, governmental and private organizations concerned with the reception and placement of refugees.

16.       The High Commissioner was also acquainted with a plan elaborated by the representatives of the Migration Committee and the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) for guaranteeing with comparatively small sums the loans which local banks are ready to give to refugees for their independent establishments, especially as share-croppers in lands around Santiago and other large cities in Chile. It is to be hoped that the various organizations concerned may find the means to offer those guarantees and thus increase the possibilities for refugees to settle in Chile. From February 1952 to June 1956, 1,426 refugees, transported by the Migration Committee, were admitted to Chile.

Colombia

17.       On the occasion of the High Commissioner's visit to Bogota, the Colombian Government decided to authorize Colombian consuls in Europe to grant visas to refugees selected from camps by the President of the Colombian Catholic Immigration Committee, who visited Europe last May. An initial group of 142 refugees was thus selected and some of them have already arrived in Colombia. The Colombian Institute of Immigration and Colonization was dissolved by governmental decree at the beginning of 1956, and its functions were entrusted to a National Immigration Committee composed of the Minister for Foreign Affairs, as president, the Manager of the Agrarian Credit Bank and the Chief of Police. The Colombian Catholic Immigration Committee is planning a pilot agricultural settlement for refugees in the vicinity of Bogota. The scheme will be financed by the Agrarian Credit Bank and ICMC.

18.       Colombia was the first Latin American country to contribute to UNREF with a sum of $US 10,000,which was remitted by the Colombian delegation to the United Nations to UNHCR in November 1955. From February 1952 to June 1956, refugees, transported by the Migration Committee, were admitted to Colombia.

Cuba

19.       A decree enacted in August 1955 on general procedures for the granting of resident status to aliens contains special provisions which facilitate the recognition as residents of aliens who for political reasons have taken refuge or asylum in Cuba. Several refugees coming within the mandate of the High Commissioner have benefited from this new procedure.

Dominican Republic

20.       The Dominican Government confirmed, on the occasion of the High Commissioner's visit, its pledged contribution of $US 5,000 to UNREF. The contribution was remitted shortly afterwards.

Ecuador

21.       The Ecuadorian authorities confirmed to the High Commissioner their willingness to admit limited numbers of refugees and offered to examine the possibility of making a contribution to UNREF. Subsequently, in his inaugural message to Congress on 1 September 1956, the new President of Ecuador stressed his Government's interest in promoting immigration and generously offered to admit refugees under the protection of the United Nations.

22.       During the visit of the High Commissioner, a National Committee of Immigration was created composed of high officials and leader of industry, commerce and agriculture. The Committee intends to study legislation in force and to propose modifications to it with a view to facilitating immigration; it also intends to investigate the labour needs of agriculture and industry. This welcome development will satisfy the need for a national organization for the reception and placement of refugees.

Peru

23.       Although Peru has not admitted refugees in the recent past, the High Commissioner found considerable interest in the United Nations programme for refugees in governmental, church and private circles. He was assured that the Government would consider the possibility of a contribution to UNREF. The newly organized Caritas Catolica of Peru is actively studying possibilities for the admission and placement of refugees.

Uruguay

24.       The Uruguayan Government announced to the High Commissioner its intention of submitting the 1951 Convention to Congress for ratification. It also suggested that it would favourably consider the admission of refugee families from camps. At the present time, immigration is virtually limited to the reunion of families with heads of families already established in Uruguay. A provisional committee for the establishment of a Uruguayan Catholic Commission of Immigration has recently been formed. From February 1952 to June 1956, 112 refugees, transported by the Migration Committee, were admitted to Uruguay.

Venezuela

25.       During his visit to Caracas, the High Commissioner was very pleased to learn that a contribution to UNREF would be made by Venezuela in the course of 1956. The possibility of selecting and admitting refugee families from camps within the programme of the National Agrarian Institute or through the Aliens Office was discussed with the heads of those two departments, and the High Commissioner received assurances from both that the question would be given early consideration. The High Commissioner visited the agricultural colony of Turen, which is administered by the National Agrarian Institute, and was much impressed by this unique and vast experiment in land settlement where twenty-five nationalities are represented and a number of refugee families have found new homes. From February 1952 to June 1956, 595 refugees, transported by the Migration Committee, were admitted to Venezuela.

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[1] Official Records of the General Assembly, Eleventh Session, Supplement No.11 (A/3123/Rev.1)

[2] Ibid., Ninth Session, Supplement No.13 (A/2648)

[3] Including unofficial camps in Austria.

[4] Including administrative expenses.

[5] In addition, projects were put into implementation requiring UNREF funds in the value of $958,944 from private contributions, almost entirely from the grant of the Netherlands Committee for Aid to Refugees.