Assessing UNHCR registration data as a source of mortality statistics for conflict-affected populations: A case study in Yemen

In this paper, we consider the challenge of death registration and mortality estimation for populations affected by conflict and displacement, where conventional systems of civil registration are seldom functional. Our analysis and discussion are framed around a short case study that showcases existing registration systems in Yemen and presents a descriptive mortality analysis based on these existing data sources. We first provide a general discussion of the registration of displaced people, who are playing an increasingly key role in shaping the demographic trends in the Arab region. We then introduce some of the challenges to death registration in Yemen and review the registration process in place in the country for refugees and IDPs. We describe two databases maintained by UNHCR: the refugee registration information system (ProGres) and the Health Information System (Twine). We present preliminary results based on changes in the size and composition of populations of PoCs, basic demographic rates, and cause-specific mortality fractions. Finally, we discuss the potential for data collected by UNHCR to contribute to official vital statistics in Yemen.