The right to seek asylum from persecution is fundamental to the protection of human rights throughout the world. The right is specifically recognized in Article 14 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states "Everyone has the right to seek and to enjoy in other countries asylum from persecution."

The Refugee and Asylum Project recruits and trains volunteer attorneys, paralegals, and law students to represent individuals who have fled religious, ethnic, political, or gender-based persecution in their countries of origin.  Using a large pool of volunteers, the Project provides pro bono representation to hundreds of individuals each year. Unless our clients are granted asylum, they face return to countries where they fear detention, torture, or death.  Volunteers are always needed!  Attorneys interested in representing an asylum seeker through the Project should join the Probono.Net Asylum Practice Area.

To become a client, call the Asylum Client Line at 612-341-9845.  The Project serves asylum seekers residing in Minnesota and torture survivors who are seeking asylum and who reside in North and South Dakota.  All clients must meet the Project's income guidelines.