Answer to Question #304233 in History for Janine

Question

1. Is the category of ‘refugee’ driven by the politics of humanity or the politics of the state interests?
2. Why do (and should) refugees get more rights than other categories of displaced peoples?

Answer 1

1. The category of refugee is driven by politics of state interests which bring about political conflicts whereby refugees flee. Also, politics of humanity play a significant role in the country that welcomes refugees from another country.
2. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) play an important role in pursuing international protection is to ensure that states are aware of, and act on, their obligations to protect refugees and persons seeking asylum. Refugees should receive at least the same rights and basic help as any other foreigner who is a legal resident, including freedom of thought, of movement, and freedom from torture and degrading treatment.