WorldJuly 4, 2026

exile

/ˈɛɡ.zaɪl/

Definition

The state of being forced to leave one's home or country, often as a result of political persecution, threats to safety, or fear for one's life.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'exilium,' which means banishment. It entered Middle English via the Old French 'exil' and originally referred specifically to the punishment of being barred from one's native land.

In the news

In this article, the word is used to describe the severe personal risks—including displacement—faced by human rights defenders. It highlights that standing up for justice often results in activists being forced to flee their homes to escape persecution or death.

PBI-Canada participates in APG-organized call with Global Affairs Canada on the Mexico-Canada Human Rights Dialogue

Read the full article ↗

Peace Brigades International-Canada

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