What arrangements does UNHCR favour for rescue at sea and disembarkation? What does international law say on this subject?
Anyone in danger or distress at sea should be rescued and allowed to disembark at a place of safety. This will usually be the closest safe port. The disembarkation of asylum seekers and refugees in territories where their lives and freedom may be threatened is precluded. The 1974 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (the SOLAS Convention) and the 1979 International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (the SAR Convention) explain the different obligations of states and individuals regarding rescue at sea. These are complemented by the International Maritime Organization’s Guidelines on the Treatment of Persons Rescued at Sea. The 1951 Refugee Convention also applies to refugees who have been rescued at sea. Shipmasters and captains often face difficulties when trying to disembark people at the nearest safe port. UNHCR appeals to governments to strengthen coordination and cooperation in rescue operations to ensure that such difficulties are overcome. UNHCR hopes th
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