E18. Learn English with the news: what is a refugee? (with transcript)

The English for Change Podcast

When reading the news in English, you will probably have come across the following terms:

• refugee
• asylum seeker
• migrant

But what do they mean exactly?
As I record this episode in April 2022, we are seeing the invasion of Ukraine and the fastest growing refugee situation since World War 2.
So far, 4 million Ukrainian people have left their country to find safety in other countries and they are being referred to as 'refugees'.
In this episode, I will clarify the difference between migrant, asylum seeker and refugee - terms frequently misunderstood by the media. I will also talk about my own experience working in refugee organisations and share some reliable sources to learn more about the refugee situation in Ukraine.
This episode also has a transcript so you can read along while listening and check any new or unfamiliar words.

You can access the full transcript on my website here
Sources mentioned:
UNHCR, What is a refugee?
How many Ukrainians have fled their homes and where have they gone?
UNHCR - Ukraine Refugee Situation Operational Data Portal
EU Ukraine Response: EU Steps Up With Temporary Protection, Border Management Guidelines, Humanitarian Aid, and Support to Member States
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