Refugees vs. Internally Displaced Persons: What’s the Difference?
When discussing displacement due to conflict, persecution, or natural disasters, two terms often arise: refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Although both groups face similar challenges, they are defined and treated differently under international law. Understanding the distinction between these two groups is crucial for recognizing their rights and the support they need.
Who is a Refugee?
According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), a refugee is defined as:
“Owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group, or political opinion, is outside the country of his nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself of the protection of that country.” Regional legal instruments in Africa and the Americas have broadened this definition by including people who are compelled to leave their country because of “external aggression, occupation, foreign domination, internal conflicts, massive violation of human rights or events seriously disturbing public order”.
Refugee Protection and Rights
Refugees are granted specific protections under international law, including:
- Right to Asylum: The right to seek refuge in another country.
- Non-refoulement: The principle that refugees cannot be returned to a country where they would face danger or persecution.
- Rights in Host Countries: Many host countries provide refugees with access to education, employment, and healthcare.
These protections are outlined in the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, which form the core of international refugee law.
Who is an Internally Displaced Person (IDP)?
An internally displaced person (IDP) is someone who has been forced to flee their home due to conflict, violence, or natural disasters but remains within the borders of their own country. The United Nations Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement defines an IDP as:
“Persons or groups of persons who have been forced or obliged to flee or to leave their homes or places of habitual residence, in particular as a result of or in order to avoid the effects of armed conflict, situations of generalized violence, violations of human rights, or natural or human-made disasters, and who have not crossed an internationally recognized State border.”
Unlike refugees, IDPs have not crossed an international border, meaning they do not have the same protections under international refugee law.
IDP Protection and Challenges
IDPs face many of the same hardships as refugees, including:
- Loss of shelter
- Separation from families
- Lack of access to basic services like healthcare, education, and sanitation
However, because they have not crossed an international border, IDPs fall under the jurisdiction of their own government, which may not always be able or willing to provide adequate protection or assistance.
Key Differences Between Refugees and IDPs
| Criteria | Refugees | Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Crossed an international border. | Remain within their own country. |
| Legal Protection | Protected under international law (UNHCR). | Protected under national law (often insufficient). |
| Status | Recognized by international organizations (UNHCR). | Not recognized as refugees under international law. |
| Rights | Access to asylum and refugee rights in host countries. | Often lack protection or rights in their own country. |
| Assistance | Aid provided by UNHCR and other international agencies. | Aid provided by local governments, NGOs, and humanitarian organizations. |
Why Does the Difference Matter?
- Legal Protections: Refugees are granted protections under international law, particularly the UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which is tasked with safeguarding refugees’ rights. In contrast, IDPs, who are often at the mercy of their own governments, may not receive the same level of protection or international aid.
- International Support: Refugees, by crossing international borders, often receive assistance from global humanitarian organizations. IDPs typically rely on local or national authorities, which may lack resources or the will to help.
- Statistical Impacts: The number of IDPs worldwide often exceeds the number of refugees. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), millions of people remain displaced within their own countries, highlighting the importance of addressing their needs as well.
How Can You Help?
While both refugees and IDPs face serious challenges, international organizations, governments, and individuals all have roles to play in providing support:
- Advocacy and Awareness: Raise awareness about the plight of both refugees and IDPs by supporting organizations like UNHCR and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.
- Support Humanitarian Aid: Donate to NGOs working with displaced populations to provide food, shelter, healthcare, and education.
- Policy Engagement: Advocate for stronger legal frameworks that protect the rights of both refugees and IDPs globally.
Final Thoughts on Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons
Though both refugees and internally displaced persons face similar experiences of displacement, their legal status and the protections available to them differ. Understanding these distinctions is key to recognizing their specific needs and ensuring they receive the appropriate support. By supporting organizations that assist displaced populations and advocating for stronger protections, we can help make a difference in the lives of those forced to flee their homes, whether within their country or across borders.
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Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.