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 displaced peoples as established in international law. HIAS and the HIAS Foundation 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.