Civilization — U.S. Immigration & Asylum Policy

A series of flashcards covering key concepts in U.S. immigration and asylum policy based on historical events and legislation.

Asylum

A sanctuary providing protection from persecution, often granted by a sovereign authority.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)

An international document that outlines fundamental human rights, including the right to seek asylum from persecution.

Refugee

A person who has a well-founded fear of persecution due to race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion.

Non-refoulement

A principle that prohibits returning refugees to countries where they face serious threats to their life or freedom.

Displaced Persons Act (US)

US law that allowed for the admission of European refugees after WWII, primarily targeted those fleeing communism.

Credible Fear Standard

A legal measure introduced to assess whether individuals have a reasonable possibility of persecution, allowing them to proceed with asylum claims.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

A temporary immigration status granted to eligible nationals of certain countries affected by armed conflict or environmental disasters.

Caging

A policy practice in which migrants are detained in camps or facilities, reflecting a legal approach to asylum and immigration.

Cartagena Declaration

A regional definition of refugee status that includes individuals fleeing generalized violence and human rights violations, expanding upon the UN 1951 definition.

Architecture of Repulsion

A conceptual framework that describes the strategies and structures implemented to prevent asylum seekers from reaching the Global North.