The 1951 Refugee Convention

TitleThe 1951 Refugee Convention
Publication TypeWebsite
AuthorsUN Refugee Agency
Place PublishedGeneva
Abstract

The 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol are the key legal documents that form the basis the work of the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR). With 149 State parties to either or both, they define the term ‘refugee’ and outline the rights of refugees, as well as the legal obligations of States to protect them. The core principle is non-refoulement, which asserts that a refugee should not be returned to a country where they face serious threats to their life or freedom. This is now considered a rule of customary international law. UNHCR serves as the ‘guardian’ of the 1951 Convention and its 1967 Protocol. According to the legislation, States are expected to cooperate with us in ensuring that the rights of refugees are respected and protected.

URLhttp://www.unhcr.org/pages/49da0e466.html
Entry by GWC Assistants / Work by GWC Assistants : 
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