Who are considered refugees?

Refugees are specifically individuals who have fled their home countries due to a well-founded fear of persecution based on factors such as race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. This status is recognized under international law and is distinct from other forms of migration.

By seeking residence in another country to escape such life-threatening circumstances, refugees are granted protection and assistance. Their circumstances create a pressing need for humanitarian support, which is a crucial aspect of refugee status as outlined in the 1951 Refugee Convention.

In contrast, the other options describe individuals who migrate for different reasons that do not align with the definition of a refugee. For instance, individuals migrating for economic opportunities are typically classified as economic migrants, while those on temporary work permits or tourists are visiting or relocating for non-persecutory reasons and do not face the grave threats that characterize a refugee's situation. Understanding the precise definition of a refugee is important for comprehending the broader context of human rights and international protection mechanisms.