The definition of a refugee is set out in the 1951 Refugee Convention, which is the key international treaty governing refugee protection. The Convention defines a refugee as a person who:
- Has a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.
- Is outside their home country and is unable or unwilling to avail themselves of the protection of their home country.
In order to be considered a legal refugee, a person must meet the definition of a refugee set out in the Refugee Convention. They must also have been granted refugee status by a country that is a party to the Convention, or by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
Once a person has been granted refugee status, they are entitled to certain rights and protections under international law. These include the right to:
- Seek asylum in another country.
- Not be returned to their home country if they face persecution.
- Live and work in the country that has granted them asylum.
- Have access to education, healthcare, and other social services.
- Apply for citizenship in the country that has granted them asylum.
The status of legal refugee is an important protection for people who have been forced to flee their home country due to persecution. It allows them to rebuild their lives in safety and dignity.