Operations

2016 Plan Summary

UNHCR and its partners operate in a challenging humanitarian environment in Niger, with poor infrastructure, chronic droughts, seasonal flooding, extreme heat, violent winds and recurring epidemics (e.g. cholera and meningitis). Niger is ranked last in UNDP’s 2014 Human Development Index. The refugee programme is being carried out in a context where the resilience of the local population and institutions remains low. There is constant food insecurity, chronic malnutrition and a lack of infrastructure and services in rural areas. Access to the populations of concern is costly and poses significant operational and security challenges.
 
Niger also continues to be affected by the security situation in the region, which remains fragile, with instability prevailing in the north-east of Nigeria.  The dry climate and fragile environment affect livelihood interventions, and this will continue to hamper the refugee operation in 2016, particularly in the Diffa region.   
 
Building resilience and maintaining peaceful coexistence between the host community and refugees will be a priority for UNHCR and partners. Holistic and inclusive approaches to provide assistance to the affected population through development-oriented and innovative interventions will continue to be implemented.
 
The Government maintains its open-door policy and continues to allow humanitarian access and protection to those seeking refuge on its territory. Government and host community support include the preservation of and access to asylum and international protection, access to land and basic services, including health and education, markets and livelihood opportunities. UNHCR will continue to work closely with the Government to support protection measures and facilitate access to public services and assistance available to both Malian and Nigerian refugees.