The Refugee Definition in International Law

This well-structured and insightful work provides much food for thought ... The purpose of this book is not to propose that a new legal instrument should be drafted, nor even to posit that the definition of the concept of a refugee contained in the Geneva Convention needs to be modified. Rather, it suggests that certain aspects of that definition should be authoritatively interpreted, and thus clarified. This work thus provides precious impetus to moves to harmonise the interpretation of that concept and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in this subject. * Koen Lenaerts, President of the Court of Justice of the European Union Luxembourg * This is a book that many have been waiting for. Written by an author who masters the dialogue between practice and academic doctrine, it provides incisive, much-needed and timely guidance on a principled application of the refugee definition. This thought-provoking study will also satisfy readers interested in issues such as the relationship between refugee and human rights law and the relevance of refugee law to address climate-induced flight. * Walter Kälin, Professor Emeritus of Constitutional and International Law, University of Bern * Storey helpfully charts the extent to which, despite a multiplicity of models and framings, a degree of consensus has emerged over the past three decades as to core elements of the refugee definition, as well as highlighting the areas where this remains lacking. The book's distillation of a working definition drawn from this analysis not only provides a useful tool for decision-makers and judges around the world tasked with deciding just who is to be recognised as a refugee, but its call for greater clarity can only be to the benefit of the very persons whom the Convention was designed to protect. * Bruce Burson, Manager, Refugee and Protection Stream, New Zealand Immigration and Protection Tribunal * Dr Storey's magnum opus offers an authoritative new perspective on the refugee definition. Up to date and rich in detail, it provides cutting-edge insights into key debates, drawing on his unique experience as a refugee law judge to explain how to apply the law fairly and faithfully in practice. * Professor David Cantor, Refugee Law Initiative, University of London *