The concept of 'environmental refugee' has gained traction in recent decades, yet its legal definition remains contentious. Unlike traditional refugees, who flee persecution, environmental migrants are displaced by slow-onset disasters such as sea-level rise or desertification. Scholars argue that the absence of a formal legal status leaves these individuals without international protection, as the 1951 Refugee Convention does not recognize climate-induced displacement. However, some legal experts propose extending the definition to include environmental factors, while others caution that such an expansion could dilute the convention's original purpose. This debate highlights the tension between humanitarian necessity and legal precision, raising questions about how international law should adapt to emerging global challenges.
❓ 환경 난민이 국제적 보호를 받지 못하는 주된 이유는 무엇인가?
A. A. 그들은 강제로 집을 떠나지 않아도 된다.
B. B. 1951년 난민 협약은 기후로 인한 이주를 포함하지 않는다.
C. C. 그들은 자국의 머무르는 것을 선호한다.
D. D. 국제기구들은 그들을 도울 자원이 없다.
✅ 正确答案
B. The 1951 Refugee Convention does not cover climate-induced displacement.
IELTS Reading Tips
Skim the questions first, underline keywords, then locate in the passage
Watch for paraphrasing; correct answers are often reworded
Be wary of absolute statements (all, always, never) — usually wrong
Pay attention to content after transition words (however, but, yet)
Manage time: about 20 minutes per passage; skip difficult questions first