A civil war refugee refers to an individual who has been forcibly displaced from their home or country due to an ongoing civil war. This term specifically emphasizes the reason for displacement, which is a conflict within the same nation rather than a foreign invasion or external conflict. A civil war is an armed conflict characterized by opposing factions within the same country, often with differing ideological, political, or ethnic aspirations. As a result of this internal strife, civilians living in such regions become vulnerable to various forms of violence, persecution, and destruction.
Civil war refugees are individuals who have fled their homes, seeking refuge and protection in safer areas within their country or in neighboring nations. These refugees undergo a difficult and uncertain journey, facing physical and emotional hardships, as well as an increased risk of human rights abuses, including displacement, injury, or loss of loved ones.
The International Refugee Convention defines a civil war refugee as someone who has a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group in their home country due to the ongoing civil war. They are legally entitled to seek asylum and international protection from nations or organizations capable of providing sanctuary, safety, and support until the conflict subsides and it is deemed safe for them to return home.
In summary, a civil war refugee refers to an individual forcibly displaced due to an ongoing civil war within their own nation, seeking safety and protection in other regions or countries.
