Which term refers to a person who has been forced to flee their home but remains within their country's borders?

The term that refers to a person who has been forced to flee their home but remains within their country's borders is "internally displaced person." This designation is used specifically for individuals who have been displaced due to conflict, violence, human rights violations, or natural disasters, yet have not crossed an international border. They remain under the protection of their own government, although that government may be unable or unwilling to provide adequate assistance or protection.

Understanding the context of this term is essential in the field of asylum and refugee law. It highlights the distinction between different groups of displaced persons based on their location relative to national borders. In contrast to refugees, who have crossed into another country and thus require international protection and assistance, internally displaced persons do not seek asylum in another country but still face significant challenges and risks within their own.

This distinction also underscores the various legal frameworks and protections that apply. Refugees are recognized under international law and are eligible for specific rights and support, while internally displaced persons often rely on domestic law and the humanitarian response from both their government and international organizations.

In summary, recognizing the unique situation of internally displaced persons is crucial in understanding the broader aspects of forced migration and the complexities involved in providing appropriate protections and assistance.