EC/50/SC/CRP.17 page 7 (g) In cases where refugees and asylum-seekers have moved in an irregular manner from a country 12 in which they had already found protection, enhanced efforts should be undertaken for their readmission including, where appropriate, through the assistance of concerned international agencies. In this context, States and UNHCR should jointly analyze possible ways of strengthening the delivery of protection in countries of first asylum. There could also be more concerted efforts to raise awareness among refugees of the dangers linked to smuggling and irregular movements; (h) In order to discourage the irregular arrival of persons with abusive claims, rejected cases which are clearly not deserving of international protection under applicable instruments should be returned as soon as possible to countries of origin, which should facilitate and accept the return of their own nationals. States should further explore proposals to enhance the use and effectiveness of voluntary return programmes, for instance with the assistance of IOM. V. CONCLUSION 35. Interception, whether implemented physically or administratively, represents one mechanism available to States to combat the criminal and organized smuggling and trafficking of migrants across international borders. UNHCR invites governments to examine possibilities to ensure, through the adoption of appropriate procedures and safeguards, that the application of interception measures will not obstruct the ability of asylum-seekers and refugees to benefit from international protection. Further analysis of the complex causes of irregular migration may be necessary, including their relationship with poverty and social development. Only a comprehensive approach, respecting principles of international refugee and human rights law, is likely to succeed in both combating irregular migration and in preserving the institution of asylum. 12 Conclusion No. 58 (XL) (A/AC.96/737, para.25).

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