The need to address the humanitarian necessities of Bhutanese refugees living in the refugee camps of eastern Nepal is acute. Since the refugees from Bhutan are not yet allowed to participate in any economic activities in the country, they solely depend on humanitarian assistance provided by the Nepal Government and various national, international organizations.
Nepal received asylum seekers in thousands when the 1990/1991 influx from Bhutan took place. Since then, many refugees have resettled in various other countries including the United States and Australia, but just over six thousand refugees still remain in the camps of Beldangi and Sanischare situated in eastern Nepal.
The UN Agency that is responsible for catering the needs of refugees worldwide is the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), also known as the UN refugee agency. It was established during World War II to help millions of people displaced during the conflict.
Since then, UNHCR is providing humanitarian assistance to people who have had to leave their homes due to violence, persecution, war and disaster worldwide. It advocates for their rights and protection under international law.
