In the ever-evolving landscape of forced displacement, the Refugee Coordination Model (RCM) stands as a mode of effective humanitarian leadership and response. Since its inception, the RCM has guided UNHCR and inter-agency partners in coordinating efforts to protect and assist refugees worldwide. The 2024 updated RCM guidance builds on previous iterations and addresses recent developments in the inter-agency landscape. 

UNHCR has exercised leadership and coordination responsibilities in refugee situations for decades. However, it was not until 2013, with the introduction of the RCM, that the organization developed a model ensuring accountable, inclusive, predictable and transparent coordination in responding to refugee situations. The RCM articulates the standard elements of coordination within these settings and underscores the importance of inclusive and transparent leadership. 

In 2019, several developments warranted the issuance of further guidance. Amongst these developments were the General Assembly’s affirmation of the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) in 2018 and the positive experiences in adapting the RCM to a range of situations, including mixed refugee and IDP emergencies, and movements involving refugees and migrants. 

The 2024 update comes at a time of profound transformation affecting the landscape in which we operate and builds upon over 10 years of lessons learned from RCM implementation. The updated guidance aligns with key Global Compact on Refugees principles, including the primacy of government leadership and the importance of promoting a whole-of-society approach. It also underscores the centrality of protection and emphasizes the importance of coherent humanitarian-development-peace approaches and sustainable programming. 

Experience has demonstrated that through inter-agency coordination, UN agencies and partners can work together more effectively to avert conflict, sustain peace, and foster development, ensuring that refugees and communities hosting them have better outcomes. 

Download the complete document here: 2024 RCM Guidance