UNHCR Handbook for Emergencies - UNHCR eCentre

Introduction
● Knowing how many refugees there are and
who they are is fundamental for planning
and managing an efficient operation. There
are several ways of determining numbers
with sufficient accuracy;
● Although an accurate enumeration is essential,
a formal mass registration should not
necessarily be an automatic response at the
start of an emergency;
● Successful registration needs good planning,
careful implementation and consistent
monitoring.
1. To plan and manage an efficient operation,
one of the first things to know is how
many refugees there are and who they are.
An accurate enumeration is therefore an essential
component of any assessment.
2. Chapter II, 8(f) of the UNHCR Statute
states that the High Commissioner shall provide
for the protection of refugees by “obtaining
from Governments information concerning
the number and condition of refugees in their
territories". It must be made clear to the authorities
that an assistance operation cannot
be carried out without this information.
3.
Although an accurate enumeration is essential,
a formal mass registration should not
necessarily be an automatic response at the
start of an emergency.
There are a number of methods for accurate
population estimation (including age/sex breakdown)
which do not require formal registration.
In some circumstances these simpler
methods may be preferable as an initial response.
4. The main advantage of registration is that
it provides a unique opportunity to acquire
basic information for subsequent programming.
It also helps avoid disputes about
refugee numbers. Registration will also be an
essential component of any individual or family
tracing programme and may be an important
factor in protecting refugees.
5. The most practical time to register
refugees is when they arrive at a reception/
transit centre or site for settlement. Registration
is often carried out in conjunction with
health screening. Transferring refugees to a
new site also provides a good opportunity for
mass registration.
6. A discrepancy may arise with time, between
official figures and the best estimates
of those working closest to the refugees.
Unless this discrepancy is swiftly resolved major
problems will follow. Small discrepancies are
likely, given the difficulties in enumeration
and registration. Large ones can be avoided
by timely action to verify numbers through
the various methods set out in this chapter.
7. For detailed information on registration
and population estimation techniques, refer
to Registration – A Practical Guide for Field
Staff.
Population Estimates
● For most methods of population estimation,
it is important to understand the community
structure of the beneficiary population;
● Estimates should be updated regularly.
Introduction
8. The following methods can be used to
estimate the population:
i. Counting;
ii. Administrative records;
iii. Lists compiled by refugee leaders;
iv. Extrapolation and Global Positioning System
(GPS);
v. Aerial photography.
9. Understanding the community structure
of the beneficiary population is important for
most methods of population estimation – for
example, living arrangements and the average
number in a family group.
10. Annex 1 provides a format for reporting
population estimates as part of an overall situation
report. Estimates should be updated
regularly.
Counting
11. If there are easily identified entry or
transit points during a refugee influx (e.g.
bridges or transportation sites), then a daily
count of the number of people passing
through these points can give a reasonable estimate
of the refugee population. Sufficient
staff should be immediately positioned at
bridges and other critical points to provide
24 hour coverage. These staff members should
be provided with counters to aid counting,
and with simple recording and reporting
forms.
Population Estimation
and Registration
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