Legal Definitions - refugee

A refugee is a person who is afraid of being harmed or persecuted in their home country because of their religion, race, nationality, political opinions, or membership in certain social groups. The United States government provides refugee status to people who meet these criteria.

For example, if someone is a member of a political group that is not supported by their government and they fear being arrested or harmed because of their beliefs, they may be considered a refugee. Another example is if someone is a member of a religious group that is being targeted for violence in their home country, they may also be considered a refugee.

In addition, anyone who helps to find a missing American soldier who was captured or went missing during a war can also receive refugee status in the United States.

These examples illustrate how a person's fear of persecution or harm in their home country can make them eligible for refugee status in the United States.