MEF SCHOOLS MODEL UNITED

NATIONS 2025
"AI for Inclusive Growth: Navigating Opportunities, Equity, and Ethical
Challenges in the Digital Era,"

Committee: UNHCR
Agenda Item: Artificial Intelligence in Refugee Protection: Enhancing Humanitarian Assistance
and Security
Student Officer: Can Kuzey Güner
Position: President Chair

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has effectively become an innovative tool when addressing the most
critical matters of today's world, including Refugee Protection, a trending topic due to the
increasing flow of refugees around the world. AI offers immense opportunities, likes of which
have never been seen before, to enhance the efficiency of current methods regarding Refugee
Protection. From predictive analysis that can predict displacement trends to surveillance and
detection mechanisms to digital distribution tools that ensure adequate and equal resource split to
all, there is no denying that AI is reforming how the global community responds and takes
caution to current and possible future refugee crises. The UNHCR plays a pivotal part in
ensuring the safety and the well-being of refugees thus it must find ways to integrate AI to its
current methods, while discussing and addressing the possible risks and concerns surrounding AI
to minimize the cons of this new technology. These issues may consist of the following examples
such as but not limited to: data breaching and the ethical use of it.

Definition of Significant Terms

Artificial Intelligence:
Artificial Intelligence or AI, is the replication/simulation of human intelligence in machines
designed to perform tasks like learning and problem solving.

Refugee:
A refugee is someone who is unable or unwilling to return to their country of origin, due to a fear
of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social
group, or political opinion. (Refugee Convention, 1951)

Displacement Trends:
Displacement trends are patterns based on the movement of people who are forcibly displaced
due to conflicts, violence, human rights violations, etc.(Global Trends Report, 2001)

Border Protection:
Border protection is the measures and strategies used by a country to regulate and secure its
borders thus aiming to prevent unregulated entry and protect national security.

Open Borders:
Open borders are a policy that allows people to pass through borders without limiting factors
such as visa requirements, border checks, immigration control, etc.

Predictive Analytics:
Predictive analytics is a branch of data analysis that uses historical data, statistical algorithms,
and machine learning techniques to predict future outcomes. (Shmueli et al., 2017)

Remote Assessment Technologies:

Remote assessment technologies are technologies that enable the evaluation of individuals'
knowledge, skills, or performance through digital platforms that ensure effective and secure
assessments, regardless of location (Hernandez et al., 2021).

Biometric Identity Management Systems (BIMS):

BIMS is the innovative method that uses authentic physical or behavioral traits, such as
fingerprints or facial recognition to verify and manage individuals' identities.

Ethical Guidelines (Regarding AI):

Ethical guidelines regarding AI focus on ensuring that the development and use of artificial
intelligence systems are aligned with human values, promote fairness, and avoid harm.

Natural Language Processing (NLP):

Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a branch of artificial intelligence that aims to assist
machines to understand human language.

Resettlement:
Resettlement in immigration is the process of moving individuals, often refugees, from the
country they first went to, to another country that agrees to accept them.

Blockchain:
Blockchain is a decentralized digital algorithm that records transactions across multiple devices
so that the data that is stored is secure, transparent, and tamper-resistant.

Admissibility:
Admissibility is when a foreigner can enter, stay in, or gain legal status in a country, after being
inspected by an immigration officer.

Detailed Background of the Issue

Over the past few decades, specifically the most recent ones, humanity has become much closer to
technology and innovation, using them in every field of their lives. Among the most game-changing
innovations of the century is artificial intelligence (AI), which has the potential to rewrite our
understanding of refugee protection. As the global refugee crisis gets more and more evident by the day,
mainly driven by conflict and political instability, AI offers innovative solutions and chances to discuss
the topic of refugee protection in unprecedented ways.

Refugees, who are often caught in the hardest conditions, face numerous different challenges ranging
from securing basic needs such as food and shelter to finding a country that would accept them and give
them a sense of belonging. Existing methods have been proven to be slow, inefficient, and too costly to
respond to the extent of this crisis, thus making it so that a change is necessary. This is where AI plays a
crucial role in solving these issues as it requires minimum human effort, thus making it cheaper. AI has
also proven to be much more reliable and precise than humans when it comes to refugee protection, as AI
is objective, unlike humans, who may have prejudice against refugees.
Historical Context and Development of Refugee Protection

The protection of refugees has been discussed in international law since the 1951 Refugee Convention,
which defined and classified who a refugee is, what their rights are, and the legal obligations of states to
protect them. The Convention and its protocol, published in 1967, continues to remain cornerstones of
international refugee law today. Historically, UN-affiliated organizations, specifically the UNHCR, have
shown themselves as the primary actors in the topic of refugees. They are tasked with facilitating
resettlement, offering legal and material aid to refugees in need, etc.

While these efforts have been crucial in supporting displaced populations and are worth celebrating, the
scale of modern displacement, caused by numerous different factors all piling up at the same time (Arab
Spring, Syrian Civil War, Climate Change, Russo-Ukrainian War, and so much more) has outgrown
many of these organizations and their efforts. According to a report released by UNHCR in June 2024,
the number of people who have been displaced peaked at 122 million, 44 million of whom are refugees.
Disturbingly, this number was only reported to be 26 million in 2023. With these statistics, it’s very
evident that the scale of this crisis requires more innovative, scalable, and efficient solutions compared to
existing ones.

With the increasing demand for innovation in the field, many new solutions were found, the most
important one being the biometric identification system. (BIS) BIS revolutionized the use of innovation in
refugee protection by effectively making identity theft impossible and symbolizing the start of innovation
in the topic of refugees.

The Role of Technology in Refugee Protection

The development of innovative digital technologies in the late 20th and early 21st centuries provided
humanitarian organizations with new ways, previously thought to be impossible, to respond to crises. The
use of Satellite Imagery, Biometric Identification Systems, and Data Management Systems immensely
helped organizations track refugee flows, provide emergency services, etc. However, these innovations
weren’t enough, especially when it came to analyzing large amounts of data or predicting future trends.
They didn’t have a large database and didn’t have any features that enabled them to analyze statistics to
predict future trends.

This is where I came into play. Unlike previous innovations, AI technologies can process and analyze
vast quantities of data much faster and much more precisely than humans, helping aid organizations
respond more rapidly and effectively to emerging crises, distribute adequate resources, and predict future
refugee movements. AI’s capacity to predict and respond to crisis situations and its role in enhancing
security through surveillance made it a powerful tool in the refugee protection field.

However, there are certain concerns about the use of AI in protecting refugees such as privacy concerns,
the risk of data breaching and the risk of malfunction. Most argue that AI puts their privacy in risk as it
harbors all sorts of information ranging from biometric features to authentic physical traits (finger print,
face recognition, etc.) in a single database making it vulnerable for hackers.

The Current Situation: Integration of AI into Refugee Protection Systems

In recent years, AI has started to make a more noticeable impact on refugee protection. While still in its
early stages, the integration of AI into various aspects of refugee aid and security systems is already
showing promise.

AI in Humanitarian Assistance

One of the most critical roles of AI was the facilitation of basic needs. Refugees often find themselves in
dire need of basic needs such as food, shelter, and medical care. AI Can be used to facilitate adequate
amounts of resources to refugees in need, greatly lightening the burden refugees carry in the process.

AI-powered algorithms can analyze data about refugee populations to identify the needs of refugees and
which groups have the most urgent needs. By analyzing information such as camp population density,
health data, and available resources, AI can help aid organizations prioritize which areas require
immediate assistance. This real-time decision-making capability enables faster, more targeted responses.

In healthcare, AI is often used to assist in diagnosing diseases and managing medical supplies in refugee
camps, according to the data it collects. This greatly lightens the medical professor's job and swiftens the
process as most of the time medical professionals are overwhelmed by the amount of refugees in the
camp. AI helps by automating routine tasks, such as diagnosing common ailments, predicting outbreaks
of diseases and suggesting treatment options. Additionally, AI can help manage healthcare logistics.

AI in Security and Border Control

AI can also make a significant difference in the security field. Refugees often flee their homes under
dangerous circumstances and may be subject to exploitation or trafficking at the same time, host countries
must balance security concerns with the humanitarian means of providing refuge to those in need.

AI technologies, specifically Biological Identification Systems, are increasingly being used in border
control and admission. These tools can help identify individuals, prevent fraud, and greatly swift asylum
admission process. For example, refugees may be registered through biometric data/authentic physical
features (Fingerprint, Eye, Face) to ensure that they are appropriately documented and help prevent
multiple asylum claims under different identities.

While biometric systems can enhance security, they also raise concerns about privacy and the potential
for misuse. Given the vulnerability of refugees, collecting and using biometric data is always an ethical
discussion.

Predictive Analytics and Early Warning Systems

AI can also be a powerful tool to foresee refugee movements before they happen. Predictive analytics can
be used to analyze various factors that influence displacement, such as political instability or conflict. By
processing historical data and current trends, AI can forecast future migration patterns and help
organizations and governments prepare accordingly.

For example, AI models could predict a stream of refugees into a particular region due to escalating
violence or environmental disasters. Early warnings would allow countries and organizations to prepare
resources, allocate funding and logistics in advance of the crisis. The ability to forecast potential refugee
flows can also help countries and organizations plan long-term strategies for sustainable refugee
protection and integration.
 AI for Legal and Social Integration

Aside from providing immediate aid, AI can also be used to support refugees in finding their path in
foreign legal systems of their host countries. Many refugees struggle to understand their legal rights or
access to social services. AI powered instruction apps could hypothetically reduce the existing
misinformation and teach refugees about the atmosphere they are in.

In addition to legal aid, AI can play a role in helping refugees integrate into society. For example, AI
centered language learning programs can assist refugees in learning the local language, which is critical
for finding employment and social inclusion. Matching refugees with job opportunities, training
programs, and social networks can also be done more effectively using AI algorithms that analyze
personal profiles and preferences.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

While AI may seem like the perfect solution there is no denying that it has its flaws ranging from data
privacy to limited access. This section will cover the challenges of using AI for refugee protection.

Data Privacy and Security

One of the most pressing concerns surrounding the use of AI in refugee protection is the privacy and
security of refugees' personal data. Refugees are often vulnerable to exploitation, and the collection of
biometric data or other personal information can put them at risk if not handled properly. Strict protocols
must be in place to ensure that data is stored securely and used only for its intended purpose. Misuse of
this data could lead to discrimination, surveillance, or even deportation in some cases.

Bias and Discrimination

AI systems, like the human ones, are not immune to bias. If the algorithms used to process data are
trained on biased datasets, they may unwantedly be discriminatory against certain refugee groups. For
example, a facial recognition system that is primarily trained on images of people from one ethnic group
may be less accurate when identifying individuals from other groups. This could lead to inaccuracy in
how refugees are treated regarding security and access to services.

Access to Technology

Implementing AI in refugee protection relies on access to technology, including internet connectivity and
electricity. In many refugee camps, these basic infrastructure needs are not always available. This creates
a significant obstacle to implementing AI solutions that could make a real difference. Addressing this
issue requires a concerted effort to improve technological infrastructure in refugee hosting regions.

Conclusion

AI has the potential to alter refugee protection to an unprecedented level by enhancing the efficiency and
effectiveness of humanitarian aid, improving security, and supporting the long-term integration of
refugees into their new countries. However, this potential can only be seen if AI technologies are
implemented thoughtfully and, more importantly, ethically. Challenges related to privacy, bias, and
access to technology must be addressed to ensure that AI is used in ways that benefit refugees without
compromising their safety or dignity.
Timeline of Key Events

1941-1951
The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
(UNHCR) was established to safeguard the rights and well-being of
refugees. Its mandate focused on ensuring international protection and
finding durable solutions.

2000s Digital Innovations in Humanitarian Assistance: Introduction of digital

databases for refugee registration, improving efficiency and accuracy in
providing aid and protection.
2015 Refugee Crisis in Europe: With the influx of refugees from Syria and
other conflict zones, new technological solutions such as biometric
registration systems were deployed to manage the crisis effectively.
2018 UNHCR's Biometric Identity Management System (BIMS):
Implementing BIMS to enhance refugee identity verification, reduce
fraud, and improve access to services like food distribution and
healthcare.
2020
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the use of AI-driven tools for remote
assistance and telemedicine was accelerated, and large datasets were
analyzed to monitor refugee needs and resource allocation during the
global health crisis.

2021
AI in Predictive Analytics: Introduction of predictive models to
anticipate displacement trends, enabling proactive resource planning
and efficient crisis response.

2023 AI Ethics Guidelines: UNHCR collaborated with tech companies and

human rights organizations to establish guidelines ensuring that AI use
in refugee protection aligns with privacy, security, and humanitarian
principles.

Major Countries and Organizations Involved

United States of America: The United States of America is one of the leading countries in the
world regarding AI development for refugees. The United States has the best technological
infrastructure and global influence in humanitarian affairs because of these factors the United
States is a country with utmost importance when it comes to refugee protection with the usage of
AI. The United States can be considered as a world leader in artificial intelligence
[Link] United States has also nurtured tools like Geo Match, this tool machine
learning to pick the best spot for a refugee to immigrate to. Geo Match considers several factors
ranging from job opportunities to housing availability. Geo Match to sum it up is an ai powered
tool used for refugees to find which is the best available area to immigrate to where refugees can
succeed both financially and socially. We can not forget the fact that the United States is also one
of the biggest providers of humanitarian aid in the world. The United States has always worked
and is still working closely with the UNHCR fund AI powered tools that specialize in refugee
protection such as but not limited to, biometric identity systems(BIS) and for example the tools
like Project Jetson which was developed with collaboration with Microsoft, and this tool is used
to analyze social and economic factors and to predict refugee movements in regions like
Somalia. To sum it all up the United States is a leading country that has funded a lot of AI driven
projects and has contributed significantly to the research and development of AI and when it
comes to AI being used to protect refugees and enhancing their lives the United States is once
again at the top of the leaderboard.

Germany: Germany is one of the most important countries when it comes to refugee protection,
one of the reasons for Germany being successful in refugee protection is when they accepted
over 1 million asylum seekers during the European refugee crisis of 2015. Because of this
experience Germany decided to be significantly more involved and adopt new AI technology to
help and make it easier to manage refugees. An example of AI being used for the purpose of
refugee protection in Germany can be the system that the Federal Office for Migration and
Refugees(BAMF) uses which is using AI for biometric identification. This helps Germany to
identify asylum applications in a more secure and accurate way. Germany has also been using
automatic translating tools powered by AI. This automated tool helps the refugees and for
example the border control to be able to speak and understand each other in an easier and more
meaningful way, AI powered translation tools also helps the refugees in legal matters as well and
helps them understand the policies of Germany when it comes to refugees and migration.
Germany can also be considered as a leader in the European Union (EU) as well because of this
fact Germany becomes so much more important and involved with this topic. Since Germany has
significant influence in the EU Germany can have an influence on shaping the migration policies
of the whole EU itself. Germany is advocating for a future where AI is being incorporated into
broader refugee protection frameworks across Europe. Since Germany has a great economy and
is committed to supporting human rights, Germany invests heavily in new technology, such as
predictive technology for integration outcomes and systems that are powered by AI and being
used for the job placement of refugees. To conclude Germany is one tof he leading countries in
the world when it comes to refugee protection using AI.

Canada: Canada has great technology, economy and an astonishing commitment to refugee
protection and when these 3 factors get combined Canada becomes a key player in using AI-
powered tools for humanitarian purposes. Canada, which is known for its immigration policies,
has set a goal with its private sponsorship program. This program allows and helps communities
to assist refugee placement directly. Canada also uses AI to draw up predictive charts to identify
refugees who are a bit more likely to succeed and integrate better than others. This system is
based on several factors. The most important of these factors are education, work experience,
and most importantly language skills. Canada also uses AI to see how refugees are doing after
they have been placed at their homes or temporary housing, like shelters. Canada also uses AI to
analyze the data from social media, surveys, and health records to get a better understanding of
the refugees current mental and physical health. This system allows there to be targeted
interventions if the refugees are in bad mental health for example. The forms of interventions are
counseling services and healthcare support and Canada is also ready to provide support tailored
to individual special needs. We can also cannot forget the fact that Canada is literally a haven of
culture. In Canada there is a multicultural ethos and there is a stable environment to do the
testing of AI tools that are going to be used for linguistic and cultural changes and challenges. To
sum it all up Canada uses AI to help refugees integrate to their wide multicultural society.

Kenya: Kenya being on this list might come as a shocker but there are actually really detailed
and logical explanations for this. Kenya is a host to one of the world's biggest refugee camps,
including Dadaab and other important camps. These camps support and shelter a million
refugees in total. Since monitoring and trying to assist the refugee camps, there are already
complicated and hard problems, Kenya is a country where AI is needed desperately. To give an
example on what could be done with AI in Kenya is AI powered mapping tools which use
satellite images to monitor the population changes and movements and to assess infrastructure
needs and lastly to identify the vulnerable population in the camps. This technology can be vital
for humanitarian aid delivery in a country where resources are limited. Kenya also has to
collaborate with international organizations such as the UNHCR to deploy AI in healthcare since
Kenya cannot maintain and provide the necessary technology by itself. AI is also being used in
Kenya as a precautionary method by using AI to give a predictive analysis to help track disease
outbreaks such as malaria and cholera which are diseases that pose a fatal threat to humans, by
using this predictive analysis system Kennya can intervene medically on time to prevent deaths.
Kenya uses AI for disturbing supplies as well. AI needs to be used here since it can be hard to
allocate resources for each individual or family with just 1 person but AI makes this process so
much faster, safer, and more fair. To conclude Kenya needs to use AI to monitor the refugees
and to distribute resources equally.

Türkiye: Well Türkiye being on this list should not be a surprise. Türkiye plays a key role in the
protection of refugees, hosting the largest population or refugees in the world which is about 3.6
million displaced people and 4 million Syrian refugees. As a country located in the middle of it
all we can call Türkiye a bridge from the Middle East, Asia which connects to Europe. Türkiye
deals with a lot of refugees trying to come to Türkiye and then go to Europe. To battle these
issues Türkiye has decided to use the power of AI to streamline refugee management and
enhance support systems. An example can be the Directorate General of Migration Management
(DGMM) which employs AI-powered biometric identification and registration systems to
accurately register data and verify refugees' identity, this is done so that there can be secure
access to services like food, and healthcare. In addition, Türkiye has started using AI-based
language learning platforms to remove the social gap caused by language barriers and to help
refugees integrate into Türkiye in a significantly easier way. Türkiye is also one the countries
that use predictive analysis to predict where the next migration trend is going to be so that they
can start with taking precautions before it even happens. As a bridge between continents, Türkiye
has suffered a lot from refugees, not only from the government itself but also from the residents
of Türkiye. Türkiye can be the next world leader in AI usage for refugees because of how
immensely it has suffered.

Australia: Australia is one of the most important countries related to this issue because of its
past and its geological position. The country has indeed faced criticism about its policies in the
past because of the asylum policies being stringent. Australia uses AI to detect fraudulent claims
to help ensure that the resources are allocated equally. Australia is also using AI as an
educational method to teach refugees English. These programs help the refugees to learn the
languages that are spoken in Australia Which is mostly English. With this program, the refugees
get a better chance to integrate in the society of Australia. Also, all of these language programs
are personalized so that the refugees can get an education in the way that they understand it.
Australia also used predictive analysis to assess the long-term integration of refugees this allows
the policymakers to design programs accordingly. By combining their high level of technology
and their commitment to helping refugees integrate Australia can provide assistance into how the
world can use AI in the means of helping refugees.

International Organization for Migration(IOM): The International Organization for

Migration(IOM) plays a crucial role in helping and supporting migrants and displaced people.
IOM is a close partner to the United Nations(UN) and the IOM uses AI technologies to manage
the complex challenges posed by migration. The IOM also uses AI as a predictive method to
analyze where the next migration is going to be and helps countries that are not capable of
supporting refugees on their own. By conducting surveys and other means of data gathering the
IOM can forecast displacement patterns that are happening because of natural disasters and
conflicts. IOM has introduced digital healthcare platforms that integrate AI algorithms to
monitor and manage health data. IOM has proven itself as a hero when it comes to early
detection of disease outbreaks and improving medical support in refugee camps.

World Food Programme(WFP): The World Food Programme is a Nobel prize winner
organization affiliated with the UN. The WFP uses AI to combat hunger and food security issues
for refugees. One of its best projects is the HungerMap LIVE, this tool uses machine learning,
social media analysis, and satellite data to track food insecurity. Using this data the WFP can
detect where there is a shortage and deliver food aid to vulnerable populations which are
commonly refugees. AI is also used in the WFP’s supply chains, these supply chains are usually
weakened when they are set in crisis zones. Through the usage of predictive analysis with the
help of AI the WFP can predict where there is going to be a food shortage and adjust the
necessary logistics accordingly. The organization has also developed AI-powered cash assistance
programs. This program identifies the most vulnerable individuals and provides them with digital
money transfers. To sum it all up we can say that the WFP is an important organization when it
comes to protecting and assisting refugees with the help of AI. This organization might use the
same systems as the others but is more focused on delivering food to crisis zones to help the
displaced, the refugees.

Save the Children: Save the Children(STV) is one of the biggest organizations in the world that
is focused on the welfare of children. This organization collaborates with the UN to address the
challenges of displaced children and their families. The organization has also used AI to improve
its humanitarian aid aspects. Once through predictive analysis,the STV identifies the
communities that are at risk of displacement due to conflicts, natural disasters, and much more.
The SVT tries to intervene before the initial problem begins. Save the Children also focuses on
the education of refugee children. Refugee children face a lot of problems with their education.
This is because since they are refugees they cannot get the education that they desperately need.
SVT uses AI to create learning programs that are created just for each individual child. For
example, one child might need to learn English and another one might need to enhance his
mathematics. These platforms make it so that the children can still get their own education even
in rough circumstances. Save the Children also focuses on malnutrition trends and uses AI to
predict where it can be and send aid accordingly. To sum it up SVT is an organization that
focuses on the welfare of refugee children and their education and other specific needs.

Norwegian Refugee Council: The Norwegian Refugee Council is an international NGO that
partners with the UN to help and assist refugees and displaced people. NRC uses AI to help
refugees and displaced people to get a better understanding of the opportunities they have as
refugees. These opportunities can be for example the legal rights they have or the educational
rights they have. The NRC has digital platforms that work with the power of AI to provide
information regarding these rights and on these platforms, refugees can also find their rights like
housing options and job opportunities. To conclude the NRC is an NGO that helps refugees
know their rights by providing digital platforms that are powered by AI. The NRC also does
predictive analysis to send humanitarian aid accordingly.

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC): The IFRC is a
global humanitarian network that collaborates with the UN to support displaced individuals. The
IFRC uses AI to predict crises such as floods, droughts, and other disasters that might happen
because of this the organization has enough time to prepare for these disasters and can plan
accordingly arranging logistics and other specific needs to help displaced people and refugees.
The IFRC also uses AI-powered mopping systems and uses these maps to analyze and decide
which route will be the easiest to send humanitarian aid. The IFRC also uses chatbots powered
by AI instead of real personnel. The AI chatbot can provide real-time information in multiple
languages. These chatbots can also help refugees find shelter or camps and lead them to safe
zones that have medical aid. To conclude the IFRC brings chatbots to the lives of displaced
people and refugees helping them stay alive by navigating to necessary safe zones, camps and
shelters.

Previous Attempts to Solve the Issue

Traditional Refugee Management Systems

In the early years of refugee assistance, management systems were based mainly on manual
recordkeeping and paper-based procedures. Although these formed a basis for international
protection, they were some of the slow, resource-intensive, and error-prone methods. Delays
mainly characterized the registration and distribution of aid to refugees, and without any
centralized data to track the displaced, it became quite challenging to identify specific needs
among them. Also, these systems could not store and analyze data for a long period, creating
problems in record-keeping and monitoring refugee movements over time.
Digital Registration Systems (2000s)

The transition from manual to digital refugee registration systems was another important
milestone for humanitarian assistance. UNHCR and its partners started using digital databases to
store and manage refugee information. This transition increased the accuracy of the collection or
facilitated speedier identification and verification. Digital registration systems allowed for
greater tracking of refugee population demographics to provide targeted assistance for specific
needs such as healthcare, education, and food security. These early systems did not have the
capacity to handle large datasets or provide real-time updates, which reduced their overall
effectiveness.

Biometric Identity Management Systems (BIMS), 2013

UNHCR introduced the Biometric Identity Management System to reduce identity fraud and
ensure that resources reach the intended beneficiaries. The system utilized advanced technologies
such as iris scanning, fingerprint recognition, and facial imaging to create unique refugee digital
identities. Of these ten million refugees, biometric data was collected by 2020 and greatly helped
in enhancing identity verification, hence aiding efficient distribution. Despite this, collecting
biometric information, on the other hand, also sparked issues of data privacy and misuse of this
sensitive information. Moreover, highly underfunded operations made it very expensive to
deploy and maintain a biometric system.

Partnerships with Technology Firms (2015-2020)

Anticipating the impact of technological innovation, UNHCR joined hands with giant tech
companies like Microsoft, Google, and Accenture. These collaborations made it easier to
develop various tools for data management, real-time tracking of refugee movements, and an
improved communication platform. For example, Microsoft provided data analytics to
understand where the resources are better utilized, while Google supplied mapping and tracking
technologies to track refugee flows. These partnerships have illustrated the power of private
sector competencies in addressing humanitarian challenges on the global level. At the same time,
they have also sparked debate over the issue of data ownership and the potential commercial
exploitation of refugee data.

AI-Driven Predictive Models (2018)

Recently, AI-driven predictive models have been used to predict displacement trends and
evaluate the effects of crises affecting refugee populations. These models unlocked actionable
insights through vast data analysis on conflict dynamics, climate change indicators, and
economic conditions, thus providing a basis for proactive planning. For example, prepositioning
supplies in locations where an influx of refugees was likely to occur, based on AI predictions,
saves response times and reduces logistical burdens. However, these models also faced criticism
for relying on incomplete or biased data that might lead to faulty predictions and misallocation of
resources.
AI Refugee Tools (2020-Present)

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the use of AI in the protection of refugees. AI-powered
chatbots became available to provide refugees with timely information related to health
protocols, asylum procedures, and other available services. These could also operate in numerous
languages and were, therefore, an important avenue for communication with the internally
displaced, who have had very limited direct support. On AI-powered platforms, remote health
consultations were allowed so that refugees, even in remote or quarantined areas, get medical
support. These tools proved invaluable during a global crisis by maintaining continuity of
services but have also brought to the fore the need for robust digital infrastructure and internet
access in refugee camps.

Development of Ethical AI Guidelines (2021)

Backed by growing concerns within the global community about the ethical implications of
using AI in humanitarian contexts, UNHCR teamed up with human rights organizations,
academia, and technology companies to draft ethical guidelines for using AI. Some of these
guidelines were on principles of transparency, accountability, non-discrimination, and protection
of the personal data of refugees, while others were on engaging refugees at the design and
implementation levels for AI tools so that these new technologies may meet the particular needs
of such persons and respect their rights. Despite these efforts, ethical guidelines are implemented
inconsistently across regions, and there is a need for stronger enforcement mechanisms.

AI-driven Refugee Resettlement Pilots, 2022-Currently

The UNHCR has initiated pilot projects to apply AI to fast-track refugees through the
resettlement process. Based on the analysis of the refugees’ skills, health conditions, and family
structures, AI algorithms have matched them with host countries or communities that will serve
them best. These projects are designed to accelerate resettlement timelines and improve
integration outcomes by matching refugee profiles with the resources and opportunities of host
regions. However, these pilot projects have faced resistance from host communities and raised
concerns about fairness and transparency in AI-driven decisions.

Application of AI to Border Security

AI has been applied to border management systems to enhance security without compromising
humanitarian considerations. Drones and other facial recognition technologies powered by AI
monitor border crossings for potential threats. These tools aim to strike a balance between
safeguarding national security and protecting the rights of refugees seeking asylum. In
application, AI deployments for border security have been criticized for surveillance overreach,
bias in facial recognition systems, and the potential to deny refugees entry wrongly.

Community Engagement and Capacity Building

Recognizing that refugees are important contributors to a solution-making process, UNHCR and
its partners have sought to include refugee communities more fully in the design and
implementation processes surrounding AI-driven tools. Training programs to increase digital
literacy among refugees and to effectively use AI-based applications have been introduced.
These would enable refugees to take active leads in their protection and increase the scope of
general success with technological interventions; such initiatives need a much broader
application so that community engagement becomes commonplace across all refugees’
operations.

Alternative Solutions
Decentralized Data Management with Blockchain Technology

On the other hand, blockchain technology might complement AI in addition to a safe and
decentralized manner to deal with refugee data. Unlike conventional systems with centralized
command structures, blockchain ensures the data cannot be modified once added tamper-proof
and thus totally transparent-only granted permission will be delivered. It gives back ownership
and helps them with the digitized forms of identities themselves. Examples might be certification
of their educational backgrounds and previous employment to speed up and smoothen their
process of settling down.

AI-Powered Community Feedback Systems

Introduction of AI-enabled feedback mechanisms for eliciting and analyzing in real time in
refugee communities: Such a set of systems would use NLP for processing comments in any
language and provide recurring themes regarding problems or areas of improvement. Refugees
could anonymously input their suggestions via mobile applications or kiosks, feeling certain that
their voices are really taken into account and heard by those who have the power to make
decisions. In such a way, humanitarian agencies can orient services according to evolving needs
and preferences among the refugees.

Hybrid Human-AI Decision-Making Models

This can be mitigated by using hybrid models that use human oversight in AI decision-making to
avoid algorithmic bias and ethical dilemmas. In this model, the AI would analyze the data and
make recommendations, but human experts must validate and approve key decisions. This model
holds someone accountable and allows for contextual understanding that might not be possible
with an AI-only approach. This model might be particularly useful in sensitive areas such as
asylum adjudication and resource allocation.

Scaling Up AI for Climate Resilience

As climate change increasingly drives forced displacement, AI can be applied to better predict
and prevent the onset of climate hazards. More advanced AI models might analyze weather
patterns, predict the likelihood of natural disasters, and precisely identify which areas are most at
risk of displacement. If these insights were applied to refugee protection policies, humanitarian
organizations could better pre-position resources, establish safe migration corridors, and develop
climate-resilient infrastructure in refugee-hosting areas.

AI-powered education and skill development platforms

Empowerment through AI-driven learning systems should, therefore, target the peculiar needs of
refugees for their ultimate integration into host communities. Such applications would provide
courses in languages, vocation, and certification through various online, interactive, adaptive
learning systems. AI can help tailor individual learning pathways, monitor an individual’s
progress, and adjust over time. This increases employability, reducing dependency on
humanitarian aid.

Ethics Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks in AI

It would be ethical to include an independent audit and impact assessment in a monitoring and
evaluation framework, developing standardized metrics for assessing the efficacy and equity of
AI systems in ensuring refugee protection. This would also be a channel through which refugees
would report their complaints or concerns about AI processes to ensure openness and
accountability.

Humanitarian Technology Innovation Hubs

Establishing innovation hubs focused on the development and testing of AI solutions for refugee
protection would help fast-track progress. Such hubs would bring together a range of
stakeholders, organizations, academia, private tech firms, and refugee communities to co-design
and pilot new technologies. The innovation hubs would contribute to overcoming context-
specific challenges in ways that ensure the effectiveness and ethical soundness of AI tools.

Leveraging AI for Mental Health Support

Trauma from displacement and the stresses of resettlement too often present serious mental
health challenges for refugees. AI-driven mental health platforms could offer refugees access to
counseling, self-help resources, and crisis intervention services. AI-powered chatbots and virtual
therapists could provide immediate, culturally sensitive support in multiple languages, helping
bridge the gap in mental health services in under-resourced areas.

Improved Public-Private Partnerships for Funding AI

One of the main challenges to the sustainability of AI projects in refugee protection is funding.
Greater public-private partnership building may hold the key to unlocking new resources and
fostering innovation. Governments, international organizations, and private companies can invest
together in AI projects to ensure the development of scalable and accessible technologies.
Incentivizing private-sector participation through tax breaks, grants, or public recognition might
further improve these partnerships.
AI for Predictive Policy Modeling

AI can help governments and humanitarian agencies make better policies by simulating various
scenarios and predicting the consequences of alternative policy options. For example, predictive
models could analyze how changes in asylum laws, border policies, or resettlement quotas may
impact, enabling evidence-based decisions by policymakers. This proactive approach would help
avoid unintended consequences and enhance efficiency in refugee protection systems.

Useful Links

United Nations General Assembly Resolution on AI and Sustainable Development

EU AI Act Overview

A Dangerous Precedent: How the EU AI Act Fails Migrants and People on the Move

Refugee Protection in the Artificial Intelligence Era

The EU's AI Act and Its Human Rights Impacts on People Crossing Borders

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