According to the ICRC’s definition, migrants are people who leave or flee their usual place of residence in search of safety or better opportunities abroad, and who may be in distress and in need of protection or humanitarian assistance. Refugees and asylum seekers, who enjoy specific protection under international law, fall into this category.
Migration is a complex, global phenomenon. The causes behind migration are many and varied. Whatever the reasons for leaving their countries, migrants can become vulnerable at different stages of their journey, and some endure hardship that can harm their physical and mental well-being and threaten their lives.
This theme focuses on the protection of migrants in armed conflict and migration contexts, addressing challenges such as sexual- and gender-based violence, non-refoulement, and the need for inclusive policies that uphold humanitarian principles and international law.
