Switzerland Assumes Leadership of UNHCR's Strategic Solutions Support Mechanism for Afghan Refugees

Switzerland has taken over leadership of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees' (UNHCR) Strategic Solutions Support Mechanism for Afghan Refugees from the Netherlands.

The transition was highlighted during a recent meeting where senior officials from UNHCR, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) outlined key elements of the strategy. The mechanism, introduced in 2023 as part of the response to Afghanistan's humanitarian crisis, focuses on regional coordination, safe migration routes, returns, and addressing humanitarian needs amid economic pressures, security concerns, and restrictions in the country.

Officials introduced a new "route-based approach" to manage migration challenges in Southwest Asia, emphasizing responses to changing migration patterns. They commended the Netherlands for its achievements under previous leadership, including the reactivation of local coordination groups in Afghanistan and Iran, improved regional dialogues, and strengthened data collection.

Switzerland outlined its priorities, which include bolstering cooperation among countries of origin, transit, and destination; maintaining global attention on the issue; and advancing the route-based approach. The mechanism aims to strengthen regional coordination overall.