In Sri Lanka, UNHCR works to protect and assist people internally displaced by conflict (IDPs) as well as refugees arriving from other countries and Sri Lankan refugees returning from overseas. The backbone of UNHCR’s operation is based on finding durable solutions for the IDPs. UNHCR supports government institutions, community networks, and non-governmental organizations, with the objective of ensuring that displaced people are included in the national social support structures.

In Sri Lanka, UNHCR’s operational goals are as follows;

• Protection: Monitor the security and welfare of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), empowering individuals and advocating with authorities to ensure rights are respected
• Emergency Response: Provide basic protection coverage, emergency shelter, site management and non-food relief items (NFRIs) to newly displaced populations
• Durable Solutions: Assist people to restart their lives through voluntary, safe and sustainable local integration, return and relocation projects
• Communication: Ensure transparency and dialogue with external entities, including the Government, Diplomatic Missions, other UN agencies, I/NGOs and beneficiaries