The 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol are key legal instruments that define the rights of refugees and the obligations of states. Here are three notable features:
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Definition of a Refugee: The 1951 Convention establishes a clear definition of who qualifies as a refugee, focusing on individuals with a well-founded fear of persecution based on specific grounds such as race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. This definition helps ensure that those genuinely in need of protection receive it.
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Non-refoulement Principle: A cornerstone of both the Convention and the Protocol is the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the expulsion or return of refugees to places where their lives or freedoms would be threatened. This principle is vital for safeguarding the rights and safety of individuals fleeing persecution.
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Rights of Refugees: The Convention outlines various rights for refugees, including the right to seek asylum, access to courts, work, education, and documentation. It emphasizes that refugees should receive the same basic rights as nationals within the host country, promoting their integration and self-sufficiency.
The 1967 Protocol expanded the scope of the Convention by removing geographical and temporal limitations, making it applicable to refugees from conflicts occurring after 1951.