This lesson introduces the meaning of refugee, distinguishes refugees from internally displaced people and asylum seekers, and explains how the term and its legal definitions developed.
A refugee, according to the UNHCR, is a person forced to flee their country and seek safety in another country because of feared persecution, armed conflict, violence, or serious public disorder. In the 1951 Refugee Convention, the central definition focuses on a person who is outside their country and cannot or, because of a well-founded fear of persecution, is unwilling to seek that country’s protection.
All flashcards
What is a refugee in the UNHCR’s general description?
A person forced to flee their country and seek safety in another because of feared persecution, armed conflict, violence, or serious public disorder.
What is the key difference between a refugee and an IDP?
A refugee has crossed an international border, while an internally displaced person has fled home but remains within their own country.
What is an asylum seeker?
A person who has formally requested protection from a state or the UNHCR and is waiting for a decision on the claim.
What grounds appear in the 1951 Convention definition?
A well-founded fear of persecution for reasons including race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion.
What does the history of the word refugee show?
The term developed from a word connected with shelter and protection and later came to describe people forced to flee their homes.
Quiz questions
What does the principle of non-refoulement prohibit?Answer: Sending a person to a place where they face persecution, torture, or other serious harm.
What conditions define voluntary repatriation as a durable solution?Answer: The refugee returns freely, based on an informed decision, and in safety and dignity.
What is UNRWA’s role?Answer: It provides assistance and services to Palestinian refugees in its areas of operation.
What does the term “canvas ceiling” describe in refugee employment?Answer: Systemic barriers to work that matches refugees’ skills and experience.
On what date is World Refugee Day observed annually?Answer: 20 June
Based on the Wikipedia article Refugee, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.