The United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees was approved at a United Nations special conference on 28 July 1951.  Although it was initially limited to protecting European refugees, a 1967 Protocol removed the geographical and time limits.  It is often referred to as “the Geneva Convention” because the convention was approved in Geneva.

The Convention defines a refugee and sets out the rights of individuals who are granted asylum.  It also sets out the responsibilities of nations that grant asylum. The convention also sets out which people do not qualify as refugees, such as war criminals.  The convention deals with the personal status, movable and immovable property, artistic rights, and rights of association, of refugees.  It also provides refugees with free access to courts.  It also deals with the employment and welfare of refugees.  The convention guarantees freedom of movement and administrative assistance to refugees.

Full text of United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees