States are responsible for protecting the fundamental human rights of their citizens. When they are unable or unwilling to do so – often for political reasons, based on discrimination, or due to conflict, violence and other circumstances seriously disturbing public order – individuals may suffer such serious violations of their human rights that they must leave their homes, their families and their communities to find sanctuary in another country. Since, by definition, refugees are not protected by their own governments, the international community steps in to ensure they are safe and protected. Countries that have signed the 1951 Convention are obliged to protect refugees on their territory and treat them according to internationally recognized standards.