What is the difference between asylum seekers and refugees?

Migration And Refugees Questions



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What is the difference between asylum seekers and refugees?

Asylum seekers and refugees are both individuals who have left their home countries due to fear of persecution or violence. However, there is a difference between the two terms.

An asylum seeker is someone who has fled their home country and is seeking protection in another country. They have not yet been granted refugee status and are in the process of applying for asylum. Asylum seekers often arrive in a new country without proper documentation and must prove that they meet the criteria for refugee status.

On the other hand, a refugee is someone who has been granted legal protection in another country due to a well-founded fear of persecution. Refugees have successfully gone through the asylum process and have been recognized as needing international protection. They are entitled to certain rights and benefits, such as access to healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.

In summary, the main difference between asylum seekers and refugees lies in their legal status. Asylum seekers are individuals who are in the process of seeking protection, while refugees have already been granted legal status and protection in another country.