Refugee councils. By countries.

Refugee councils or similar organizations exist in several countries, typically tasked with advocating for refugee rights, supporting asylum seekers, and advising on refugee-related policy. These councils may be government-affiliated or independent NGOs. Here are some notable examples:

Countries with Refugee Councils:

1. United Kingdom
   • Refugee Council
     The UK Refugee Council provides support to refugees and asylum seekers, advocates for fair refugee policies, and works on public awareness campaigns about refugee issues.
2. Australia
   • Refugee Council of Australia (RCOA)
     An independent NGO that advocates for humane treatment of refugees and asylum seekers, conducts research, and provides policy recommendations.
3. Canada
   • Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR)
     A national non-profit organization that works to protect the rights of refugees and immigrants and promotes policies in line with Canada’s international human rights obligations.
4. United States
   • U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants (USCRI)
     While not called a “refugee council,” it functions in a similar capacity, offering resettlement assistance and advocating for refugees and asylum seekers.
5. Germany
   • Pro Asyl and German Refugee Council (Flüchtlingsräte)
     Germany has multiple refugee councils at the state (regional) and national levels, including the well-known advocacy group Pro Asyl.
6. Sweden
   • Swedish Refugee Advice Centre (FARR)
     Focuses on providing legal advice and supporting asylum seekers in navigating Sweden’s refugee system.
7. Netherlands
   • Dutch Council for Refugees (VluchtelingenWerk Nederland)
     Offers support and guidance to asylum seekers and refugees, including legal assistance, language classes, and housing support.
8. Norway
   • Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC)
     A global humanitarian organization that originated in Norway, providing assistance to refugees and displaced persons worldwide.
9. Denmark
   • Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
     Works both domestically and internationally, offering protection and support to refugees and displaced populations.
10. South Africa
    • South African Refugee Council (SARC)
      Advocates for refugee rights and provides support to asylum seekers and refugees.
11. France
    • France Terre d’Asile
      Provides legal and social support to asylum seekers and refugees and advocates for better integration policies.
12. New Zealand
    • Asylum Seekers Support Trust (ASST)
      Supports refugees and asylum seekers through advocacy and resettlement programs.
13. Ireland
    • Irish Refugee Council (IRC)
      Focuses on advocating for refugee rights, legal aid, and public awareness.
14. Italy
    • Italian Refugee Council (Consiglio Italiano per i Rifugiati, CIR)
      Provides legal and social assistance to refugees and asylum seekers and advocates for better policies.

Other International Organizations That Function Similarly:

• UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees):
  While not country-specific, UNHCR works globally to protect refugees, assist in resettlement, and advocate for international refugee law.
• European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE):
  A pan-European alliance of organizations advocating for fair and humane policies for refugees across Europe.