What Does it Mean to be a Refugee?

Basic Definitions

To understand the refugee experience, it's important to start with the basics. Here are simple definitions of key terms.

What is a refugee?

A refugee is a person who is forced to flee their home because of violence or mistreatment led by governments or empowered entities.

What is a refugee camp?

Refugee camps are temporary facilities that provide protection and aid to those forced to leave their homes.

Behind Every Number

Below are some statistics about refugees living in camps that show key challenges of their daily life.

20+

Average years spent in displacement
These statistics highlight the conditions faced by refugees living in camps worldwide.
  • Average displacement lasts several years
  • Nearly half of refugees face food insecurity
  • Access to clean water is limited in many camps
  • Fewer than 50% of children in refugee camps are enrolled in school
  • 1 in 2 refugees have access to healthcare

47%

Food insecurity risk

60%

Lack clean water

42%

Children under 18 enrolled in school

50%

Have no healthcare access