Why crossing borders no longer guarantees refugee safetyFor much of the modern era, refugee protection has been built upon a straightforward principle: people fleeing persecution can find safety by crossing an international border. As a result, refugee protection can no longer be understood solely in physical terms. The modern refugee protection framework emerged in the aftermath of World War II. At that point, the issue extends beyond freedom of expression and becomes one of civilian protection, public safety, and human rights. The defining image of refugee protection throughout the 20th century was the border crossing-a moment symbolizing escape from persecution and the beginning of safety.