Story from the Field: Opening pathways for refugees in a changing resettlement landscape

Marine Khan is deployed as a Complementary Pathways and Family Reunification Expert to UNHCR’s Regional Bureau for the Americas, based in Panama. Amidst shifting resettlement dynamics and reduced funding, Marine plays a key role in expanding access to durable solutions for refugees and asylum seekers.

In this interview, she shares insights into her work, the challenges faced, and the human stories that keep her motivated.

For those unfamiliar with your work, could you walk us through what Complementary Pathways and Family Reunification mean?

Marine: Complementary pathways and family reunification are central to UNHCR’s protection and solutions strategy. Complementary pathways are typically skill-based programs, like education, labour mobility, or sponsorship, that allow refugees to build their future through work or study in third countries. Family reunification, on the other hand, is a rights-based process, often governed by national immigration laws that do not always consider the specific vulnerabilities of refugees. UNHCR plays a catalytic role, coordinating with states, civil society, and refugee-led organizations to support access to both types of programs.

Why do these initiatives matter?

Marine: In a global context where resettlement slots are increasingly limited, advocating for third-country solutions like complementary pathways and family reunification is essential. Even if only a few people benefit, the impact is profound. These programs are a testament to international cooperation and help build inclusive societies by recognizing the skills and resilience refugees bring.

If we were to shadow you for a week, what kinds of tasks, meetings, or challenges would we see?

Marine: There is no such thing as a “typical” week in this role. Flexibility is key. My work revolves around two main components: complementary pathways and resettlement. I provide technical support to field operations, review cases, conduct remote interviews, and help harmonize regional approaches. Sometimes I attend meetings with government counterparts or operations to discuss issues related to resettlement and complementary pathways. Sometimes I have to support colleagues by giving inputs and feedback on sensitive case-related issues. I also liaise with protection and registration units to ensure coordination. Given recent funding cuts, I often step in to support operations, whatever is needed to keep things moving.

What would you say is the core mission or driving goal behind your deployment?

Marine: My main goal is to support operations as best I can. We are working with several programs, labor mobility schemes with Canada and Italy, community sponsorships in Argentina, and a resettlement initiative for Afghans in Brazil. I always tell colleagues to not hesitate to reach out. Whether it is a Teams message or a quick call, we are all working toward the same goal.

Resettlement dynamics in your region have shifted significantly since November 2024, especially with tighter funding. How have these changes shaped your day-to-day work or strategic priorities?

Marine: The shift has been dramatic. We went from a resettlement quota of 80,000 to just over 1,000. In December 2024, we had around 600 staff working on resettlement and complementary pathways across the Americas, now we are down to 15. This means we have had to prioritize ruthlessly and train colleagues who are new to this work. Capacity building is now a major part of my day-to-day work.

What are the key trends in the region when it comes to refugees, asylum seekers, and complementary pathways?

Marine: With reduced quotas, the challenge is prioritizing vulnerable cases. For 2026, projected resettlement needs exceed 172,000 people, but available slots will not come close to meeting that. We focus on submitting only the most vulnerable cases. We also work with both allocated and unallocated quotas, Canada, Spain, and Finland provide annual slots, while unallocated quotas allow us to respond to urgent protection needs.

Can you explain the difference between allocated and unallocated quotas?

Marine: Allocated quotas are fixed numbers of resettlement slots that countries commit to annually. These are distributed across operations based on needs. Unallocated quotas are more flexible and used for urgent and emergency protection cases, such as human rights defenders or those facing immediate threats in the country of asylum. These allow us to respond quickly and strategically.

Your Terms of Reference include expanding UNHCR’s engagement in family reunification programs and coordinating with HQ on a regional strategy. How is that progressing?

Marine: It is a complex but rewarding process. We are working to harmonize approaches across operations and ensure that family reunification procedures are accessible despite legal and logistical barriers. These efforts are vital, not just for the individuals involved, but for building inclusive societies. Refugees bring skills and resilience, and these programs help unlock that potential.

What inspired you to apply for this deployment in the first place?

Marine: I have always been drawn to UNHCR’s work, especially the durable solutions component. I often ask myself: “What happens after access to territory and asylum procedures?” That question has guided my career, from livelihoods and protection to resettlement and now complementary pathways. This deployment felt like a chance to build on past work and expand possibilities in the region.

What is special about this assignment compared to others you have completed?

Marine: It is the variety. I am not wearing just one hat; I support multiple areas and coordinate across units. Every day is different, and that is what makes it special. Whether it is resettlement, complementary pathways, or family reunification, the impact is tangible. You can measure it in numbers and in how many families have reunited.

Looking back on your time in Panama so far, what accomplishments or breakthroughs are you most proud of?

Marine: Reaching the 76,000-resettlement quota last year was a huge achievement. It was not just a number; it represented thousands of families gaining new opportunities. It was a team effort, and I am proud of the capacity building we did along the way. Seeing colleagues grow into confident professionals was just as rewarding.

Can you share a specific story about a case you were involved in that went particularly well?

Marine: One case that really moved me was a single mother, a survivor of gender-based violence by state authorities. The interview took half a day, it was emotionally intense, but I wanted her to feel safe and heard. We stayed in touch, and when her case was accepted, she told me her son had started speaking only English in preparation for their resettlement. It reminded me why I do this work, because it opens doors to new futures, especially for children.

With just three months left in your deployment, what is at the top of your priority list?

Marine: My focus is twofold: continuing to support operations and preparing for 2026. That means training colleagues, ensuring a smooth handover, and helping maintain continuity in complementary pathways and resettlement activities. Whatever happens next, I want to leave things in a strong position and make sure operations have the necessary tools to continue the work that has been done so far.