Refugees and migrants are not one and same

A couple of readers’ letters (Irish Examiner, September 21) on the same subject display differing headlines. One mentions the “migrant crisis”, the other refers to the “refugee crisis”. Such terms are often uncritically used interchangeably.

Such separate categories need care to avoid confusion. They are not the same. Refugees are driven by the “push” or fear factor to flee from war and persecution. They simply seek the first safe place. They neither expect nor demand any desired destinations.

Migrants, however, are drawn by the “pull” factor and mainly for economic reasons.

Sean Bearnabhail

Bóthar Paraig Naofa

Baile Atha Cliath 9