Protection by Persuasion: International Cooperation in the Refugee Regime

Political persecution and wars every year turn millions of people into refugees. Where these displaced people go, how they are cared for, and what kind of support and protections they are offered impacts the stability of nations and regions. Circumstances surrounding refugees raise issues of human rights, political freedoms, societal viability, and the life-and-death of individuals. Viewed geographically, countries in the southern regions of the globe have had events that create most of the world's refugees, while countries in the north have accepted most of the responsibility for addressing their needs. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has undertaken steps to enhance the coordination between northern and southern countries to aid the plight of refugees and reduce the destabilizing impacts they have on vulnerable regions. This book reviews that work, offering history and synthesis of UNHCR's efforts. Annotation c2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)