Concept:
Non-refoulement is one of the most fundamental principles of international refugee law. It restricts states from returning individuals to countries where they may face serious harm.
Step 1: Understand the meaning of non-refoulement.
Non-refoulement is derived from the French word “refouler,” meaning to send back or return.
In international law, it prohibits a country from:
• Expelling,
• Deporting, or
• Returning
a person to a territory where they face threats to life or freedom.
Step 2: Identify legal basis.
The principle is primarily codified under:
• Article 33 of the 1951 Refugee Convention
• Article 3 of the Convention Against Torture (CAT)
It is also widely recognized as a rule of customary international law.
Step 3: Understand its purpose.
The principle ensures that:
• Refugees are protected from persecution.
• States cannot send individuals back to danger zones.
• Human rights obligations are upheld globally.
Step 4: Apply to options.
Since the principle directly governs the treatment of refugees and asylum seekers, the correct answer is Refugees.
Conclusion:
Non-refoulement is a protective principle under international refugee law. Hence, Option (B) is correct.