word
French
non-refoulement
non reh-fool-MON
nɒn rəˌfuːlˈmɒ̃Listen
Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.
Syllable breakdown
nonrefoulement
Dictionary meaning
The principle in international refugee law prohibiting states from returning a person to a country where they face serious threats to life or freedom
History and origin
French: refoulement = pushing back / turning back
Examples
- Non-refoulement is a cornerstone of the 1951 Refugee Convention.
- The principle of non-refoulement applies even to persons not formally recognized as refugees.
In English contexts pronounced 'non reh-FOOL-muh' or with French final nasal; both acceptable
Pronunciation tips
The final 'ment' carries a French nasal vowel — do not say 'ment' as in English 'moment'
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