How an Institutional Mandate Shapes One Short Video

The UNHCR mandate is to provide humanitarian assistance and international protection by “safeguarding the rights of refugees and others of concern and assisting them to cope with the many difficulties and dangers that they face” (UNHCR, 2006, p.18). The short film by the UNHCR produces a hopeful future trope in support of refugees by framing refugees in a more optimistic light. The UNHCR also strictly indicates that it is a non-political organization. In this short film, UNHCR Goodwill Ambassadors, celebrity supporters and refugee advocates collaborate, in hopes for everyone to act in supporting and helping refugees. By using famous faces and their platforms to highlight issues and generate support for refugees, they are creating just as big of an impact than with political figures, if not more. 

The advocates explain that the acts of empathy, kindness and understanding in the communities of refugees have provided tremendous support for them. These points align with the UNHCR mandate, and will encourage viewers to do the same. Simultaneously, the ambassadors state that xenophobia, negative stereotyping, and fear are on the rise. These factors contribute to the dangerous refugee trope that reproduces the stigma surrounding refugees and asylum seekers. As a society, we expect refugees to stay in a sad bubble, reflecting on how they have suffered, fled conflict, etc. By pointing out these dangerous perceptions, this short film brings awareness to these issues refugees face.

In relation to UNHCR’s mandate, this video urges that it is time to change these harmful perspectives on refugees. It is advocating for the protection of the refugee identity by altering public perception and conventional cultural production of refugees. Refugees, like everyone when given the chance and the opportunity, can become anything they want, reach their potential, have a positive impact, and give back. Refugees can thrive. We must normalize this support and outlook.

Reference

UNHCR. (2006). Providing International Protection. Retrieved from https://www.unhcr.org/4a2fd49b6.pdf