Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees

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June 24, 2026

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The Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, adopted by the United Nations in 1951, outlines the legal framework for protecting refugees. It defines who qualifies as a refugee and establishes their rights, including access to courts, work, and education, while prohibiting arbitrary expulsion.12

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established in 1951 to provide this protection. Initially focused on post-World War II European refugees, the UNHCR's mandate has expanded to assist refugees globally, particularly those displaced by war, political turmoil, or natural disasters. The organization works with governments and NGOs to provide essential aid, facilitate resettlement, and advocate for refugee rights. The UNHCR has been recognized for its humanitarian efforts with two Nobel Prizes for Peace.12

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asylum
…burdens on certain countries,” the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, which was adopted by the United Nations (UN) Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Status of Refugees and Stateless Persons in 1951, did not create a right of asylum for those seeking it, and the impressive array of rights…
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…burdens on certain countries,” the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, which was adopted by the United Nations (UN) Conference of Plenipotentiaries on the Status of Refugees and Stateless Persons in 1951, did not create a right of asylum for those seeking it, and the impressive array of rights…
Read More

United Nations
Refugees
…the General Assembly approved, a Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was then appointed and directed to act under this convention, and ECOSOC appointed an Advisory Commission to assist the high commissioner.
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…the General Assembly approved, a Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was then appointed and directed to act under this convention, and ECOSOC appointed an Advisory Commission to assist the high commissioner.
Read More