Asylee

Asylee An asylee is an individual who, due to a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion, has been granted asylum in a foreign country. The term is often used in the context of international law and human rights.

Legal Definition

Under the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, an asylee is a person who meets the definition of a refugee but has already reached the territory of the country where they are seeking protection. Unlike refugees, who apply for protection from outside the country, asylees apply for asylum from within the country or at a port of entry.

Application Process

The process for seeking asylum varies by country but generally involves several steps:

• Application Submission: The individual must submit an application for asylum to the relevant authorities.
• Interview: The applicant is usually required to attend an interview where they must provide evidence of their persecution.
• Decision: A decision is made based on the evidence provided and the credibility of the applicant.

Rights and Benefits

Asylees are typically granted certain rights and benefits, which may include:

• The right to remain in the country where asylum is granted.
• Access to employment and education.
• Eligibility for certain social services and benefits.
• The possibility of applying for permanent residency and eventually citizenship.

Challenges

Asylees often face numerous challenges, including:

• Legal Barriers: Complex legal procedures and requirements.
• Social Integration: Difficulties in integrating into the host society.
• Mental Health: Psychological trauma from past persecution and the stress of the asylum process.

Related Pages

• Refugee
• Asylum seeker
• 1951 Refugee Convention
• Human rights
• International law

See Also

• Immigration
• United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
• Political asylum