A person who is forced to flee their home but remains within the borders of their country is considered a victim of forced migration. This individual has not crossed an international border, distinguishing them from refugees. Often, the displacement results from armed conflict, situations of generalized violence, violations of human rights, or natural or human-made disasters. As an illustration, consider the aftermath of a severe earthquake; individuals whose homes are destroyed and who seek shelter elsewhere within their nation’s boundaries fall under this category.
Understanding this particular type of migration is crucial for several reasons within the context of human geography. It highlights the uneven distribution of vulnerability and resilience within a nation. Further, it necessitates analyzing the capacity of governments and aid organizations to respond effectively to internal crises. Historically, such population movements can reshape demographic landscapes, strain resources in receiving areas, and exacerbate existing social and economic inequalities within a country.
