Refugees are among the most vulnerable in the world. The 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees offers, together with the accompanying 1967 Protocol, a framework for providing protection for them.

This is the main legal instrument on which UNHCR’s work is based.

The convention offers an internationally recognized definition of a “refugee”, and details the legal protections, rights and assistance to which a refugee is entitled.

UNHCR is a sort of “guardian” of these two instruments. It also helps governments harmonize their national regulations to ensure that refugees receive protection and can exercise their rights.

guiding principles

The most important principle of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees (hereinafter referred to as the 1951 Convention) is non-refoulement, which means that no refugee may be returned to a country where his life or freedom is in serious danger. .

This document sets basic minimum standards regarding the treatment that must be given to refugees, including guaranteeing their rights to housing, work and education, as long as they remain displaced, so that they can live independently in conditions with dignity. . Similarly, the law defines the obligations of refugees in the host country and outlines the special characteristics of persons who are not eligible for recognition of refugee status, such as those who have committed crimes.

On the other hand, it details the legal obligations of countries that have acceded to the Convention and, possibly, the Protocols as well.

We invite you to download, for consultation, the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol.

Consult the conventions and protocols (PDF)