Visa Glossary/Refugee

Refugee

Introduction:

A 'Refugee' is someone who has to leave their country because it's not safe for them anymore. A refugee is a person who has to leave their own country because it's not safe for them there anymore. They might be in danger because of war, violence, or being treated badly due to their beliefs, race, or who they are. A refugee goes to another country for safety and a peaceful place to live.

Understanding Refugees:

Refugees are people like us who are in very scary situations. They might be running away from wars, being treated very badly by their own governments, or hurt by others because of their beliefs or who they are.

Why People Become Refugees:

People become refugees for reasons like

  • Fighting or war in their country

  • Being treated badly or unfairly because of their religion, race, or beliefs

  • Their government is not protecting them.

The Journey of a Refugee:

Becoming a refugee is hard. Imagine leaving everything you know - your home, school, friends, and even family - without knowing when you’ll return home. Refugees often travel very far and go through a lot of difficult things to find safety.

Life in a New Place:

Refugees often need help to start over when they arrive in a new country. This includes finding a place to live and work, going to school, and making new friends. Countries that welcome refugees help them with these things so they can feel safe and start building their new lives.

Common Misunderstandings About Refugees:

Sometimes, people think refugees are leaving their country just because they want a better life. But really, they are fleeing to save their lives and to find safety from very serious dangers.

Examples of Refugees:

  • A family leaving their country because of war

  • A person escaping because they were threatened for speaking out against unfair treatment.

What's the difference between a refugee and an asylum seeker?

An asylum seeker is seeking international protection but hasn't yet been recognised as a refugee. A refugee has already been recognised and is under international protection.

Can refugees go back home?

Yes, if it becomes safe for them to return home, refugees can choose to go back. Sometimes, it takes a long time to be safe enough to return.

How can people help refugees?

People can help by being welcoming, understanding their situation, and supporting organisations that help refugees settle and build their new lives.

What is the full meaning of refugee?

A refugee is someone who has been forced to flee their country because of persecution, war, or violence. They have a well-founded fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Unlike migrants, refugees do not leave their country by choice but are compelled to leave to avoid serious threats to their lives or freedom.

Why do refugees leave their country?

Refugees leave their countries for several critical reasons:

  • Persecution: This includes harm or threats based on political beliefs, religion, ethnicity, or membership in a particular social or political group.

  • War: Armed conflict and violence force people to flee to ensure their safety.

  • Violence: General violence or specific threats against individuals or groups can make staying in their home country untenable.

  • Human Rights Violations: Severe abuse of human rights in their home country, without hope of protection from the government.

Who are refugees and migrants?

  • Refugees are people who flee their countries because of a well-founded fear of persecution, war, or violence. They seek safety in another country and are protected under international law, which mandates that they should not be returned to a situation where their life and freedom are at risk.

  • Migrants choose to move not because of a direct threat of persecution or death but mainly to improve their lives by finding work or, in some cases, for education, family reunion, or other personal reasons. Unlike refugees, migrants can return home if they wish and continue to receive the protection of their government.

What is the difference between migration and refugee?

The main difference between migration and being a refugee lies in the reason for moving and the level of choice involved:

  • Migration is often a choice. Migrants choose to move to another country for better opportunities, education, family reunions, or other personal reasons. They can decide when to leave and where to go and return home safely.

  • Being a Refugee is not a choice. Refugees are forced to flee because of threats to their safety due to war, persecution, or violence. They cannot safely return home and often seek asylum in another country for protection.

  • Seeking Asylum refers to how individuals fleeing persecution, war, or violence apply for protection in a foreign country. Asylum seekers must prove that they fear persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.