description Refugee Convention Overview
The Refugee Convention is a foundational international treaty established by the United Nations in 1951. It outlines protections for individuals fleeing persecution and defines state responsibilities regarding refugees. Primarily intended for governments and international organizations, it serves as a cornerstone of human rights law concerning asylum seekers and displaced persons globally.
help Refugee Convention FAQ
What is the principle of non-refoulement in the Refugee Convention?
Non-refoulement is the core principle of the 1951 Refugee Convention, which prohibits states from returning refugees to territories where their life or freedom would be threatened. It is considered a fundamental rule of international law.
Who is officially defined as a refugee under the 1951 Convention?
A refugee is defined as someone who is unable or unwilling to return to their country of origin owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted. This persecution must be based on race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion.
What was the geographic and temporal limitation of the original 1951 Refugee Convention?
The original treaty was designed specifically to protect European refugees displaced by events occurring before January 1, 1951, primarily due to World War II. This geographic limitation was removed by the 1967 Protocol, making it universally applicable.
Which UN agency is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Refugee Convention?
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is the primary UN agency tasked with protecting refugees and ensuring compliance with the 1951 Convention. The agency was established in 1950, a year before the treaty was created.
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