What is forced migration?
Q: What is forced migration?
A: Forced migration (also called displacements) is when people are made to leave their home or homeland. It is usually caused by violence, persecution, danger, or because an authority (such as a government) has told people to move. People are removed either by force or because of a threat or command.
Q: Who is a forced migrant?
A: A person who has become forced to migrate is called a "forced migrant" or "displaced person". They may be called a refugee, but that term has a specific legal definition.
Q: How does forced migration differ from regular migration?
A: Migration of people is constantly happening, but in a stable society it usually happens because a person chooses to do it. Forced migration occurs when people's lives, well-being or freedom is endangered and they may have little or no choice but to move. In some cases, such as human trafficking and slavery, people are physically removed from their homes.
Q: What are some causes of forced migration?
A: Causes of forced migration include violence, persecution, danger due to an authority (such as a government), physical removal due to human trafficking and slavery and natural disasters which require evacuation of an area temporarily until it becomes safe again.
Q: What country produces the most number of refugees each year according to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees?
A: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees says Afghanistan produces the most number of refugees each year. It has held that position for 32 years.
Q: How many refugees are children under 18 years old?
A: Almost half of refugees are children under the age of 18. Many of these are separated from their parents.
