[Greens-Media] Seeking asylum a human right, not illegal

[Clark, Gemma (Sen S. Hanson-Young)]

Tuesday 7 October 2008

Seeking asylum a human right, not illegal

Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young has demanded a re-think of the way
Australia considers asylum seekers, with a reminder that fleeing
persecution and seeking refuge is a human right enshrined in
international law.

Some recent media reports have stated that 'illegal migrants' have been
intercepted on the way to Australia.

"The myth that asylum seekers are illegal immigrants must no longer be
perpetuated," said Senator Hanson-Young.

"A term like 'illegals' is not only offensive, but also inaccurate.

"It is not illegal to arrive in this country without a visa."

Senator Hanson-Young said that Australia had a responsibility to assist
asylum seekers.

"As a signatory to the 1951 United Nations Geneva Convention on
Refugees, and a country that considers itself compassionate and a
champion of the 'fair go', Australia must step up to its international
obligations and reputation and swiftly consider asylum seekers for
refugee status."

Senator Hanson-Young expressed concern about offshore processing of
asylum seekers in locations such as Christmas Island.

"The Greens and human rights organisations alike are concerned about the
'out of sight, out of mind' approach to treating people who arrive by
boat," she said.

"The current policy is sustaining a two-class scheme of refugees, with
those who arrive by boat severely disadvantaged compared to others.

"The negative physical and mental impact of detaining people in
extremely remote detention centres is undeniable."

Senator Hanson-Young said that the Australian Government and community
should reserve their judgement on asylum seekers until their checks had
been completed and they had either been granted asylum or not.

"Asylum seekers who arrive by boat must be treated like any other
individual seeking asylum in Australia, and undergo identity, health and
security checks promptly and fairly.

"While others continue to peddle a myth of fear around asylum seekers,
the Greens will continue to campaign for a fairer, more compassionate
Australia," she said.

Senator Hanson-Young will be attending the Migration Joint Standing
Committee's Inquiry hearing into Immigration Detention in Perth and will
be available for comment.

When: Thursday 9 October (9.15am - 1pm)
Where: Legislative Assembly, Committee Office Room No. 2, 1/11 Harvest
Terrace, West Perth

Contact: Gemma Clark on 0427 604 760