They vary from leaving the decision in principle to our representation in the country concerned - as is the case in Belgium - to our having an observer on the national committee in charge of ruling on the eligibility of a refugee. Ever since the 1951 Convention came into force in April, 1954, the importance of cooperation between governments and our Office in matters of eligibility has increased. For the refugee a favorable decision means obtaining a reasonable "status", whereas an unfavorable decision would mean lasting uncertainty and perhaps an "illegal" existence, even expulsion.