The Cartagena Declaration

The Cartagena Declaration, established in 1984 in Cartagena, Colombia, is a key document that expands the definition of refugees. It emphasizes that people fleeing violence, civil war, and widespread human rights violations also deserve protection, beyond the traditional criteria of political persecution. The declaration promotes the idea that countries in Latin America should offer asylum and support to those in need, recognizing the complex reasons for forced migration. It represents a significant commitment to human rights and regional solidarity in responding to refugee crises in the Americas.