My understanding is that without objective criteria, the task runs the risk of becoming arbitrary and fraught. I'm not saying that these special programs were arbitrary. I'm not saying that at all, because there was clearly a pressing need and an urgency. But there is the risk, and I think that's why the UNHCR has objective criteria based on need and vulnerability, that where you pursue special programs, especially “in the place of” instead of “in addition to” the general refugee resettlement program, the process could end up becoming based on a host of factors, for example, what stories are getting coverage in the media or the wishes of different community groups. It is very difficult, and so that is the purpose of having objective criteria.
On December 5th, 2017. See this statement in context.