Attachments
Overview
Relocation processes for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are complex and carry significant protection risks if not planned and implemented carefully. In line with the 1998 Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement and humanitarian best practices, it is essential that such processes are implemented in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of IDPs.
This document sets out key principles to ensure that the rights, dignity, and safety of displaced populations are safeguarded while promoting voluntariness, inclusivity, and sustainability. It also provides guidance on how to prioritize the needs of vulnerable groups, prevent harm, and foster community acceptance. By outlining key protection standards, the document helps guide authorities, humanitarian actors, and other stakeholders in designing relocation activities that minimize risks, support resilience, and contribute to durable solutions.
Relevant legal standards
All persons enjoy protection from forced displacement. This includes protection from forced relocations (or ‘evacuations’) from existing IDP hosting locations. The prohibition of forced displacement derives from the right to freedom of movement and choice of residence, expressly guaranteed under Article 13(1) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and Article 12(1) of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). International human rights law establishes that displacement may only occur exceptionally, never arbitrarily or discriminatorily, and that IDPs retain the right to return, remain, or resettle elsewhere. They cannot be compelled to relocate where life, safety, liberty, or health would be at risk.
Displacement is lawful only if it is (1) undertaken in accordance with law; (2) necessary for national security, public order, public health or morals, or the rights and freedoms of others; and (c) consistent with other recognized human rights.
Under Article 25(1) UDHR and Article 11(1) of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), authorities must ensure the right to an adequate standard of living, including adequate food, housing, health, and continuous improvement of living conditions. In line with Principles 7 and 8 of the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, authorities must provide proper accommodation, ensure safety, nutrition, hygiene, family unity, and prevent relocation to unsafe areas.