What must an applicant demonstrate if they are not specifically singled out for persecution?

To establish eligibility for asylum when not specifically singled out for persecution, an applicant must demonstrate that they belong to a particular social group that has been subjected to a pattern of persecution. This requirement looks at the broader context of systemic discrimination or harm faced by a group, rather than focusing solely on individual instances of persecution.

By providing evidence of a consistent history of persecution against individuals who share their characteristics or experiences, the applicant can argue that their fear of persecution is well-founded, despite not being directly targeted. This pattern of abuse can help establish the credibility of the applicant's claims and support the assertion that they are at risk if returned to their home country.

In this context, being part of a larger group that has faced discrimination or violence indicates a significant level of danger and reinforces the applicant's argument for asylum, illustrating that their situation is part of a larger, concerning trend of behavior against vulnerable populations.