The 10-Point Plan in Action

Good practices for the 10-Point Plan in Action

A Syrian refugee family walk along the main highway, near Veles, Macedonia. Hundreds of refugees and migrants are traveling through Macedonia everyday on their way north through the Balkans, in an attempt to reach western Europe. They use whatever means of transport is available including trains and bicycles, however many end up walking the entire distance.

Mixed movements (sometimes called mixed migration) refer to situations where a number of people are travelling together, generally in an irregular manner, using the same routes and means of transport, but for different reasons.

People travelling as part of mixed movements have varying needs and profiles and may include asylum-seekers, refugees, stateless persons, victims of trafficking, unaccompanied or separated children, and migrants in an irregular situation. Mixed movements are often complex and can present challenges for all those involved.

A major source of guidance for UNHCR, other UN agencies, governments and civil society to address mixed migratory movements is UNHCR’s 10-Point Plan of Action on Refugee Protection and Mixed Movements, first published in 2007.

The updated version below, which was produced upon its 10th anniversary, provides over 100 practical examples from UNHCR and partner organizations across the world, showcasing ways of developing and implementing migration and border policies that reflect international human rights and refugee law.

It also offers a framework to respond to the protection needs of refugees, stateless people, unaccompanied and separated children, trafficked persons and others with specific needs in the context of mixed movement. The plan sets out 10 areas where UNHCR believes initiatives are called for and could make a positive impact.