What is the definition of persecution and what is the test for "persecution"?

Persecution, as used in the act, is "the infliction of suffering or harm ... in a way regarded as offensive." Kovac v. INS, 407 F.2d 102, 107 (9th Cir.1969) (internal parenthesis omitted). An applicant may satisfy the requirement of persecution or a well-founded fear of persecution by demonstrating past persecution, or alternatively by showing a reasonable fear of future persecution. Desir v. Ilchert, 840 F.2d 723, 729 (9th Cir.1988). Habte's counsel admitted during his asylum hearing that Habte did not suffer past persecution. Therefore, to qualify for asylum Habte was required to show a well-founded fear of future persecution.