As the number of refugees and other forcibly displaced people continues to grow each year, many governments have put policies in place to keep out those seeking safety from persecution, war, and conflict. Most displaced people spend years – and even decades – in legal limbo.

HIAS’ legal protection programs are dedicated to ensuring that displaced people know their rights, have access to protective services, and can navigate the often-complicated legal systems that lead to permanent status and security. With a focus on refugee community empowerment, HIAS works in the United States and around the world to protect the fundamental human rights of displace as established in international law. We are particularly focused on ensuring that the most vulnerable – including children, survivors of torture or sexual and gender-based violence, refugees with disabilities, and LGBTQ refugees – can secure intensive legal aid.

HIAS’ Bono & Partnerships team engages volunteer attorneys from across the United States to help refugees, asylum seekers, and other forcibly displaced people access vital immigration legal services.