"The Refugee Convention" (1951 UN treaty)

The Refugee Convention, established in 1951, is a key international treaty that defines who qualifies as a refugee, outlining their rights and the legal obligations of countries to protect them. It was created in response to the aftermath of World War II and ensures that individuals fleeing persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or social group receive asylum and support. The Convention emphasizes the principle of non-refoulement, meaning refugees cannot be returned to a country where they face serious harm. It has played a crucial role in shaping global refugee protection standards.