A/CONF.171/13 English Page 76 countries in the world have ratified the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees or the 1967 Protocol, which establish standards for the protection of refugees, there is a need to strengthen the support for international protection of and assistance to refugees, especially refugee women and refugee children, who are particularly vulnerable. Displaced persons, who do not qualify for refugee status and are in some cases outside their country, are also vulnerable and need international assistance. Regional agreements to provide protection to persons fleeing war should be considered. Objectives 10.22. The objectives are: (a) To reduce pressures leading to refugee movements and displacement by combating their root causes at all levels and undertaking related preventive action; (b) To find and implement durable solutions to the plight of refugees and displaced persons; (c) To ensure effective protection of and assistance to refugee populations, with particular attention to the needs and physical security of refugee women and refugee children; (d) To prevent the erosion of the institution of asylum; (e) To provide adequate health, education and social services for refugees and displaced persons; (f) To integrate refugee and returnee assistance and rehabilitation programmes into development planning, with due attention to gender equity. Actions 10.23. Governments are urged to address the root causes of movements of refugees and displaced persons by taking appropriate measures, particularly with respect to conflict resolution; the promotion of peace and reconciliation; respect for human rights, including those of persons belonging to minorities; respect for independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty of States. Moreover, factors that contribute to forced displacements need to be addressed through initiatives related to the alleviation of poverty, democratization, good governance and the prevention of environmental degradation. Governments and all other entities should respect and safeguard the right of people to remain in safety in their homes and should refrain from policies or practices that force people to flee. 10.24. Governments are urged to strengthen their support for international protection and assistance activities on behalf of refugees and, as appropriate, displaced persons and to promote the search for durable solutions to their plight. In doing so, Governments are encouraged to enhance regional and international mechanisms that promote appropriate shared responsibility for the protection and assistance needs of refugees. All necessary measures should be /...