Economist Podcasts Borderline disorder: the UN’s refugee treaty at 70
Jul 28, 2021
Brooke Unger, a migration expert for The Economist, and Sam Colbert, who covers Canada, discuss the increasing inadequacy of the 1951 UN Refugee Convention amidst modern crises. They highlight the global reluctance to uphold asylum obligations while exploring Vancouver's controversial approach to drug decriminalization to combat overdose rates. Additionally, they touch on the urgent efforts to preserve the Mwou 'click language' in Africa, showcasing the rich cultural heritage threatened by colonization.
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Declining Support for Refugee Convention
- The Refugee Convention, adopted 70 years ago, faces increasing resistance in the rich world.
- Many governments lack the political will to protect refugees, despite rising global displacement.
Origins and Core Principle of Refugee Convention
- The Refugee Convention prevents returning individuals with a well-founded fear of persecution.
- Originating after World War II, it initially addressed European displacement before expanding globally in 1967.
EU-Turkey Deal's Impact
- A Somali couple trying to reach Greece from Turkey were intercepted and returned by the Turkish Coast Guard.
- Discouraged, they abandoned their attempt and sought to settle in Turkey instead.