In 1951, on the initiative of the UNHCR began operations, and through periodic renewals of its authority, continues as the general international agency for refugee protection. The office is non operational in its program and is thus dependent on governments and voluntary agencies for staffing the direct-care facilities for refugees. Excluded from the high commissioner's jurisdiction are refugees considered as nationals by the countries granting them asylum and refugees, such as the Palestine group, for whom separate United Nations programs have been established. At first no direct relief assistance was furnished by the UNHCR, but gradually this restriction has been relaxed. However, with an annual budget for both regular and special programs of $500 million raised by voluntary contributions, the office must depend primarily on other agencies for the direct aid that refugees require. The mandate for the UNHCR is thus very similar to that of the League of Nations high commissioner. The main functions are (1) furnishing legal protection to refugees; (2) facilitating repatriation, resettlement, and assimilation of refugees; (3) coordinating the efforts of governments and private agencies; (4) stimulating international action on behalf of refugees; and (5) providing technical assistance on a very modest scale.