The objectives of UNHCR Tunisia are grouped around four main themes, as follows:
1. Predictability through adoption of a national asylum law and ensuring access to asylum
The adoption and enforcement of national asylum legislation will constitute a breakthrough for the protection of asylum-seekers and refugees. Depending on the exact wording of the law and the nature of its enforcement, it is expected that such a national legislation will significantly improve the legal status of refugees and asylum-seekers, ensure protection against refoulement, and ensure access to services. It will also allow judicial interventions in case the legislation would not be respected by the various levels of authorities.
2. Enhancing UNHCR’s protection procedures with special focus on refugees with specific needs
Refugees with specific needs will receive proper care and attention in line with UNHCR’s global strategies, particularly for children and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence. Implementation of standard operating procedures on financial assistance will ensure that a similar approach for criteria and assistance is applied for all refugees regardless of where they reside in Tunisia.
3. Maintaining response capacity for potential high number of influx
UNHCR is chairing the UN coordination group on emergency response. The members are UN agencies, and their partners are also involved. Effective and efficient response will be in place in case of influx across land and sea borders.
4. Support directly and through diversified partnerships refugees’ self-reliance and access to service in urban areas.
Refugees will be supported to settle in urban areas through accessing various self-reliance activities e.g. vocational training, micro-projects, business training, and receiving start-up support consisting of installation grant and assistance with finding accommodation, enrolling children in schools, and accessing health-care services.