Glossary
G
Geneva Convention
The Convention on Refugees (1951) was signed by 150 countries, including Belgium. By signing the convention, these countries pledged to protect anyone who is not protected in their own country. Based on this convention, a person can be recognised as a refugee. Refugees must meet the following conditions: be outside their own country, have reason to fear persecution and be unable or unwilling to ask for protection from their own country. The reason for persecution must be one of the following: race, religion, nationality, political conviction or social group.