Know your rights
Refugee rights and protection
Every refugee has rights under international law, whether or not they are resettled.
Your core rights
- Protection from return: you cannot be sent back to a place where your life or freedom is at risk (non-refoulement).
- Access to asylum and fair procedures.
- No penalty for entering irregularly to seek safety.
- Safety and non-discrimination without distinction of race, religion or nationality.
- Documentation such as identity and travel papers.
- Basic services: education, health care and the right to work, in line with the host country’s laws.
- Family unity wherever possible.
International law
These rights come mainly from the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol. UNHCR is mandated to protect refugees and help governments uphold the law.
Your responsibilities
Refugees are expected to respect the laws of the country where they live.
If your rights are not respected
Contact UNHCR or a local legal aid organisation.
Questions about your situation?
Read our frequently asked questions or visit the contact page.
Contact us