ISLAMIC

E D U C A T I O NAL
COLLEGE

‫ة‬ ‫ة‬
‫مدارس الكلي العلمي‬
‫ة‬
‫لمي‬
‫الاس ا‬

Human Rights Council

Topic Brief

Topic 2
[Addressing Challenges Faced by Asylum Seekers in the Gulf
Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries]

IECMUN’24
President: Omar Khitan
Deputy President: Abdellatif Alebitawi
Chair: Karim Ibzei
Presidential Letter
Greetings everyone,

I am Omar Alkhitan, a 12th grader at the Modern American School, and I am

thrilled to serve as the president of the Human Rights Council for the upcoming

IECMUN’24 conference.

Recalling my early days as a delegate, I understand the blend of anticipation and

apprehension that accompanies involvement in a Model United Nations

conference. Whether you are a newcomer navigating your first experience or still

developing your skills, I can guarantee that by the end of this conference, you will

depart with newfound confidence, expanded knowledge, and enhanced abilities

As we delve into crucial global issues during our time together, with a specific

focus on human rights, I am eager to witness your innovative ideas and solutions.

The challenges we face require thoughtful consideration, and I believe each of you

brings a unique perspective that will contribute to the richness of our discussions.

A successful MUN conference is not just about the topics at hand but about the

collective effort of individuals committed to positive change. I am confident that,

together, we can make this conference an enriching experience and create lasting

memories. Let us all keep in mind that the United Nations was created to promote

peace, unity and security not to satisfy an individual’s wants or desires.

Looking forward to meeting you all!

Regards,

Omar Alkhitan -President of the Human Rights Council

Abstract
Asylum seekers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries encounter a
multitude of challenges, necessitating a thorough understanding of historical
contexts, existing policies, and potential solutions. This paper, tailored for the
Human Rights Council (HRC) in Model United Nations (MUN), seeks to provide
an extensive exploration of the complexities surrounding the protectio n and well-
being of asylum seekers in the GCC region. Through an in-depth analysis,
including historical perspectives, current policies, violations against refugees,
asylum grant statistics, deportation issues, UNHCR involvement, proposed
solutions, and additional topics, this paper aims to illuminate the multifaceted
nature of asylum seeker issues in the GCC countries and provide actionable
recommendations for addressing them effectively.

1. Introduction

The GCC countries, comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and
the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have historically served as destinations for
migrant workers seeking economic opportunities. However, amidst regional
conflicts and political instability, these countries have also become havens for
asylum seekers fleeing persecution and violence. This paper aims to delve into the
complexities surrounding the protection and well-being of asylum seekers in the
GCC region, shedding light on historical, legal, humanitarian, economic, and
geopolitical dimensions of the issue.

2. Historical Background

The historical backdrop of asylum seekers in the GCC countries is shaped by

geopolitical shifts, colonial legacies, regional conflicts, and economic factors.
Colonial interventions, post-colonial power struggles, and geopolitical rivalries
have often exace rbated conflicts, leading to displacement and forced migration.
Understanding the historical context is crucial for comprehending the root causes
of displacement and formulating effective responses to address the needs of asylum
seekers.

3. Current Refugee/Asylum Policies

An examination of current refugee and asylum policies in GCC countries reveals a

complex array of legal frameworks, administrative procedures, and institutional
mechanisms. While some countries have established formal asylum systems based
on international refugee law principles, others lack clear legal frameworks or rely
on ad hoc measures. Disparities in policies and practices among GCC countries
pose challenges for asylum seekers and underscore the need for regional
cooperation and harmonization.
4. Violations Committed Against Refugees

Violations against refugees in the GCC countries include arbitrary detention, denial
of access to legal representation, refoulement, and lack of effective protection
mechanisms. These violations not only contravene international human rights law
and refugee law but also undermine the dignity and rights of asylum seekers.
Addressing such violations requires strengthening accountability mechanisms,
enhancing legal protections, and promoting respect for human rights and
humanitarian principles.

5. Asylum Grant Statistics

In-depth analysis of asylum grant statistics in the GCC countries provides insights
into the trends, patterns, and challenges associated with the asylum process. While
some GCC countries have relatively high acceptance rates for asylum claims,
others have lower rates, reflecting variations in legal frameworks, administrative
procedures, and political considerations.

For example, Saudi Arabia has granted asylum to thousands of Syrian refugees in
recent years, reflecting its humanitarian response to the Syrian refugee crisis and
its commitment to providing protection to individuals fleeing conflict and
persecution. Similarly, Qatar has implemented resettlement programs and
humanitarian initiatives to support refugees from various countries, contributing to
its reputation as a regional leader in refugee protection.
However, despite these positive developments, challenges remain in ensuring fair
and efficient asylum procedures, including issues related to access to information,
legal assistance, and decision - making processes. Moreover, disparities in asylum
grant rates among GCC countries highlight the need for greater regional
cooperation and harmonization of asylum policies to ensure equitable protection
for asylum seekers across the GCC region.

6. Issues with Deportation

Deportation practices in the GCC countries raise legal, ethical, and humanitarian
concerns, particularly regarding the principle of non-refoulement and the rights of
individuals to seek asylum and protection from persecution. Asylum seekers often
face arbitrary detention, lack of access to legal assistance, and inadequate
procedural safeguards during deportation proceedings. Ensuring compliance with
international legal standards and respect for the rights of asylum seekers is
essential for upholding principles of justice and human rights.

7. UNHCR Presence in the GCC

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) plays a crucial
role in providing protection and assistance to refugees and asylum seekers in the
GCC region. Despite challenges, including limited access and cooperation from
some GCC governments, the UNHCR works to strengthen refugee protection,
advocate for durable solutions, and support host communities. Enhancing
collaboration with the UNHCR and increasing support for its activities in the GCC
countries is essential for improving the protection and well-being of asylum
seekers.
8. Additional Solutions

In addition to the aforementioned areas, further solutions can be explored to

address the challenges faced by asylum seekers in the GCC countries:

Strengthening Legal Protections: Enhancing legal frameworks to provide clearer

pathways to asylum, ensure access to legal aid and representation, and prevent
refoulement.

Improving Reception and Integration: Developing comprehensive reception and

integration programs to provide asylum seekers with access to education,
healthcare, employment, and social services.

Addressing Root Causes: Tackling the root causes of displacement through

conflict resolution, peacebuilding, development assistance, and addressing human
rights abuses.

Promoting Regional Cooperation: Strengthening regional cooperation

mechanisms to facilitate burden-sharing, information exchange, and joint responses
to refugee and migration challenges.

Empowering Civil Society: Supporting civil society organizations working on

refugee rights advocacy, service provision, and community integration initiatives.
9. Addressing Gender-Based Violence
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a pervasive issue affecting asylum seekers,
particularly women and girls in the GCC countries. Addressing GBV requires
comprehensive measures, including prevention, protection, and access to
specialized services, such as safe accommodation, legal assistance, and
psychosocial support.

10. Mental Health Support

Many asylum seekers in the GCC countries experience trauma, stress, and mental
health challenges due to their displacement, persecution experiences, and
uncertainty about their future. Providing accessible and culturally sensitive mental
health support services,including counseling,therapy,and psychosocial support, is
essential for addressing their mental health needs and promoting resilience and
well-being.

11. Child Protection Measures

Child protection is a critical concern for asylum seekers, including unaccompanied
minors, separated children, and children born in displacement, in the GCC
countries. Ensuring the rights, safety, and well-being of asylum-seeking children
require comprehensive child protection measures, including access to education,
healthcare, legal assistance, family reunification, and protection from exploitation,
abuse, and trafficking.

12. Enhancing Legal Aid Services

Access to legal aid services is essential for asylum seekers to understand their
rights, navigate complex legal procedures, and access justice. Strengthening legal
aid services, including legal clinics, pro bono representation, and interpreter
services, is crucial for ensuring fair and effective asylum procedures and
safeguarding the rights of asylum seekers, particularly those facing barriers to legal
access.

13. Economic Empowerment

Promoting economic empowerment initiatives, including vocational training,
language classes, entrepreneurship support, and access to financial resources, can
enhance the self -reliance, dignity, and integration prospects of asylum seekers in
the GCC countries. Economic empowerment measures can enable asylum seekers
to contribute to their host communities, build resilience, and regain control over
their lives.

14. Healthcare Access

Ensuring access to healthcare services, including primary care, mental health
services, and reproductive health care, is essential for addressing the health needs
of asylum seekers in the GCC countries. Providing equitable and culturally
sensitive healthcare services can improve health outcomes, promote well-being,
and reduce disparities among asylum-seeking populations.

15. Technology Solutions

Harnessing technology solutions, such as digital platforms, mobile applications,
and online resources, can enhance access to information, legal assistance, and
support services for asylum seekers in the GCC countries. Leveraging technology
can improve efficiency, reach marginalized populations, and facilitate
communication and coordination among stakeholders involved in refugee
protection and assistance efforts.
16. Future Outlook
Looking ahead, addressing the challenges faced by asylum seekers in the GCC
countries requires sustained commitment, collaboration, and innovation from
governments, civil society, international organizations, and the broader community.
By adopting a holistic and rights-based approach, promoting regional cooperation,
and implementing comprehensive solutions, significant progress can be made
towards ensuring the protection, dignity, and well-being of asylum seekers in the
GCC region.

17. References

https://www.un.org/en/about-us/universal-declaration-of-human-rights
https://www.unhcr.org/fr-fr/en/media/convention-and-protocol-relating-status-refug
ees https://www.amnesty.org/en/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/English.pdf

https://www.hrw.org/news/2018/10/30/qatar-gulfs-first-refugee-asylum-law

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/jid.3865

https://www.iom.int/sites/g/files/tmzbdl486/files/2018-07/RS5.pdf

https://publications.iom.int/system/files/pdf/WMR-2022-EN-CH-3_1.pdf

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/0023656X.2011.600545
https://www.un.org/development/desa/pd/sites/www.un.org.development.desa.pd/fi
les/200605_e gm_p09_fargues.pdf

https://hdr.undp.org/content/arab-human-development-report-2016-youth-and-pros
pects-human- development-changing-reality

https://meirss.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/GCC-and-Refugees.pdf
https://www.jstor.org/stable/48503049]

https://deeply.thenewhumanitarian.org/refugees/community/2016/06/20/the
-gcc-must-rethink-its- refugee-strategy

https://academic.oup.com/jrs/article/34/2/1423/6357375