Migration Terminology: Key Terms and Why They Matter
Did you know the way we label people on the move not only impacts the narrative and rhetoric around migration, but can also actually affect their access to safety, resources and rights?
Language shapes our understanding of the world, and the words we use to discuss migration significantly impact people’s lives. Terms like "migrant," "refugee," and "asylum seeker" describe different experiences and legal situations. Using these terms correctly is crucial to promote empathy, influence public attitudes and policy decisions.
This guide provides clear definitions of essential migration-related terms and explains why precise language matters. Understanding these terms helps us engage in more informed and compassionate discussions about these human experiences.
Key Migration Terms
Understanding these terms helps us engage in more informed and compassionate discussions about these human experiences.
Asylum Seeker
An "asylum seeker" is someone who has fled their home country due to threats to their safety and is seeking protection in another country. They are in the process of applying for asylum, which involves proving that staying in their home country would endanger their life. This process can be lengthy and stressful, with asylum seekers facing uncertainty and limited rights while their application is reviewed.
Listen to our speaker Gulwali explain his difficulties with the UK Asylum System here.
Economic Migrant
An "economic migrant" moves primarily for better economic opportunities, such as finding a higher-paying job or improving their living standards. For example, someone moving from India to Germany or the UK to Australia for better employment opportunities is an economic migrant, immigrant, or simply a migrant. Unlike asylum seekers, economic migrants are not necessarily escaping immediate threat of war or persecution (although it could be argued that poverty and destitution are threats to safety), but are seeking improved living conditions.
Host Country
The host country is where individuals aim to settle and seek protection. It is their final destination in their migration journey, where they seek safety and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. The host country’s policies on immigration and asylum greatly affect individuals' ability to integrate and establish themselves. For example, Germany’s approach to refugee integration can significantly impact how well refugees from Syria are able to settle and thrive.
Listen to our Founder Jaz’s brother Mez’s story of integration in the UK here.
Human Trafficking
Human trafficking is when someone is illegally moved or exploited, often through coercion or deception, or against their will. Trafficking can involve forced labour or sexual exploitation. For example, a person lured from Vietnam to the United Arab Emirates under false promises of employment, only to find themselves trapped in forced labour, is a victim of human trafficking. These individuals are in urgent need of support and protection to escape their situation and rebuild their lives.
Listen to Nhat-Anh’s story of being trafficked from Vietnam to work on a cannabis farm in the UK here.
Internally Displaced Person (IDP)
An "Internally Displaced Person" (IDP) has been forced to leave their home but remains in their own country. They might be displaced due to conflict, natural disasters, or human rights violations but have not crossed an international border. For instance, someone in Nigeria fleeing violence from Boko Haram but staying within Nigeria is considered an IDP.
Listen to stories of those fleeing Boko Haram here.
Migrant
A "migrant" also known as an “immigrant” or “economic migrant” is anybody who moves from one country to another. Usually by choice, for reasons such as job opportunities, study, or family. For example, a person from the UK moving to Spain to retire is a migrant (although they are often referred to as expats…but that’s another story). Migrants generally have the freedom to choose their destination and do not face the same legal or humanitarian issues as those fleeing danger.
Our founder Jaz’s mum is a migrant, who moved from The Netherlands to the UK for love. Listen to her story here.
Pushbacks
A pushback is an informal deportation or ‘expulsion’ of individuals or groups back across a border and into another country, often conducted illegally and by force. This often happens to groups of migrants immediately after having crossed a border, without consideration or assessment of their individual circumstances. They have become increasingly common in recent years and the violent tactics used are costing lives. A pushback is different to a ‘deportation’ which is a formal procedure conducted within a legal framework.
Listen to our podcast episode about Pushbacks here.
Refugee
A "refugee" is a person who has been granted protection after proving they were forced to leave their country due to persecution, conflict, or violence. For example, a family from Afghanistan who fled to the UK due to war being recognised as refugees under international law, specifically the 1951 Refugee Convention. This Convention outlines the rights of refugees and the obligations of host countries. Refugees have certain rights in their host country, including the right to live and work legally, and pay taxes. However, refugee status is often temporary, and individuals typically need to apply for permanent residency or citizenship to secure their long-term status.
Stateless Person
A "stateless person" is someone who does not have citizenship in any country. This can happen due to gaps in nationality laws or political issues. For example, a person born in a region with disputed borders or a country that has collapsed might end up stateless. Stateless individuals face significant challenges, such as being unable to travel, access education, or obtain employment legally.
Listen to our podcast episode about living Stateless in the USA here.
Transit Country
A transit country is where individuals stop temporarily on their way to their final destination. These countries provide temporary refuge but may pose additional challenges, such as limited resources or legal uncertainties. For example, many people travelling from Central America to the United States pass through Mexico as a transit country.
Listen to stories from a common transit country, Turkey, here.
Undocumented person
An "undocumented person" is someone who is living in a country without the legal right to do so. This may occur when a person overstays their visa or enters a country without the necessary documentation. For example, a person who enters the United Kingdom on a student visa but continues to live there after their visa expires is undocumented. Such individuals often face difficulties, including limited access to public services and the risk of deportation.
In Conclusion
Accurate terminology helps us understand and support people on the move, whatever their circumstance. By using the right terms—migrant, asylum seeker, refugee, or IDP—we can engage more effectively in discussions about migration and contribute to policies that respect and protect people's rights. Understanding the roles of the country of origin, transit country, and host country provides valuable context for the migration experience.
While these terms help us grasp different situations, they are just labels. At ‘Asylum Speakers,’ we aim to avoid terms that might create division. Instead, we focus on the human stories behind these labels. Remember, these terms describe legal statuses and situations, but they don’t define a person’s entire experience.
Ways you can help make a difference:
Using Accurate Language: Be mindful of the terms you use and correct misinformation when you come across it.
Spreading the Education: Share this guide to increase awareness about the importance of precise migration terminology.
Read our Books, listen to the podcast or Book a Speaker: Read our books Asylum Speakers or Bobble, listen to the podcast or book one of our Speakers for your next event to deepen your understanding of the reasons people leave their homes.
Supporting Organisations: Get involved with or donate to groups that advocate for the rights of refugees and asylum seekers.