5 Similarities and Differences Between Conflict-Induced IDPs and Refugees

SIMILARITIES

1. They are both forced to leave their homes

2. In most of the cases their own governments do not or can not assist them

3. They cannot return their homes because of the fear of death

4. They need protection, shelter and food

5. In both cases the situation of displacement continues for long years 

DIFFERENCES

1. Refugees are the ones who crossed their state borders, IDPs, on the other hand, could not mostly because of their weaknesses or inabilities.

2. For the refugees, there is a 'Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees' which is binding for the 145 ratified parties. For IDPs though, there are non-binding 'Guiding Principles' that present a guidance for the states, international organizations and individuals dealing with the situation.

3. UNHCR is a UN agency working specifically for the rights of the refugees since 1950, IDPs, in contrast, do not have such a specific organization while according to the Guiding Principles must be protected and supported by their own governments that are mostly the main reason of their displacement.

4. For every one refugee, there are almost two IDPs worldwide.      

5. By crossing the border, refugees are granted asylum by the hosting state and their next urgent needs are food and shelter. IDPs, on the other hand, stay among fires and must keep living with the fear of death everyday.