2026 marks the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees.
The 1951 Refugee Convention, and its 1967 Protocol, are the key legal documents that protect the rights of refugees at the international level.
The Convention defines the term ‘refugee’ and outlines the legal protection, rights and assistance a refugee is entitled to receive. It was developed in the aftermath of the First and Second World Wars, when millions of people fled their homelands in search of refuge. The core principle of the 1951 Convention is non-refoulement, which asserts that a refugee should not be returned to a country where they face serious threats to their life or freedom.
UNHCR serves as the ‘guardian’ of the 1951 Convention and 1967 Protocol. UNHCR also helps governments translate them into national laws to ensure refugees are protected and can exercise their rights.
As displacement continues to rise and pressure on asylum systems grows, the 1951 Convention remains as vital as ever. It continues to provide the legal framework to safeguard the rights and safety of refugees and remains relevant in tackling contemporary challenges, such as ongoing conflicts, climate change and disasters. This 75th anniversary is an opportunity to reaffirm the Convention’s relevance and strengthen its application in today’s world.
Learn more about the 1951 Refugee Convention at unhcr.org.
