The GSM Association represents the interests of mobile phone operators and related industries worldwide.
In a recent study, GSMA pointed out that with the exception of Mozambique, Malaysia, Rwanda, Niger, Jordan, and Lebanon, most countries do not recognize UNHCR identification documents issued to refugees for purchasing and activating a mobile SIM card for purposes of communication or mobile financial services.
In the attached Policy Note, GSMA investigates and advocates for asylum countries to put in place an enabling and proportional policy and a regulatory environment that allows refugees and other forcibly displaced persons, once being identified, having access to mobile services, including connectivity and mobile money. At the level of each country a dialogue should be promoted between key stakeholders including mobile operators and financial services, donors, humanitarian agencies and NGOs, as well as policymakers on the delivery of digital humanitarian assistance.