What does the UN Refugee Agency primarily promote?

The UN Refugee Agency, formally known as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), primarily focuses on the protection and assistance of refugees. Its main mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of people who have been forced to flee their country due to persecution, conflict, violence, or human rights violations. The agency works to provide essential services such as shelter, food, healthcare, and education to refugees, helping them to rebuild their lives in safety.

In addition to direct assistance, the UNHCR also advocates for the rights of refugees and works with governments to ensure fair and humane treatment for those seeking asylum. The agency plays a critical role in outlining international laws and standards that govern refugee protection, thus ensuring that these individuals receive the necessary support and protection as outlined in the 1951 Refugee Convention and other international frameworks.

The other options, while addressing important global issues, do not align with the specific mandate and focus of the UN Refugee Agency. Humanitarian relief in disaster zones pertains more to general emergency responses rather than refugee-specific needs. International peacekeeping operations are the responsibility of other UN bodies, aiming primarily at maintaining peace and security in conflict areas. Global health initiatives, though vital, do not specifically relate to