AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL
Newsflash
09 February 2013

Refugee deal takes New Zealand down the wrong path

Amnesty International is deeply concerned that the recently announced refugee deal between New Zealand and Australia does not address refugee protection in the region, and may actually undermine a regional approach.

Of particular concern is that the 150 refugees to be resettled by New Zealand will still have to wait for years in Australia or in an offshore centre, like those in refugee camps, under the 'no advantage policy'.

“It is extremely disappointing to see the New Zealand Government's support for this policy, in its acceptance of this deal” said Amanda Brydon, Amnesty International’s Government Relations Manager.

“Amnesty International, along with the United Nations High Commission for Refugees have repeatedly dismissed the 'no advantage' policy as an unrealistic concept that does not align with the reality of refugee situations around the world.

Moreover, countries like New Zealand and Australia who have signed the Refugee Convention should not be purposely trying to lower their standards of protection to deter asylum seekers to seek this protection by boat, but providing that protection as required to meet their international obligations.

It’s also disappointing that the NZ Government will be including refugees who have arrived in Australia in its already small quota of 750.

As a country that receives so few asylum seekers arriving at its borders, New Zealand should be focusing on increasing its resettlement program. In particular, with countries like Syria, Mali and Afghanistan continuing to produce record numbers of refugees, this is not the time to be taking refugees from a country like Australia.

There is no reason why the Australian Government cannot protect the refugees who arrive in their territory, instead of continuing to palm them off on neighbouring countries.”

Amnesty International also refutes the idea that this deal in any way contributes to a 'regional approach to refugees'. If Australia and New Zealand are genuinely committed to a regional approach then they need to engage meaningfully with countries like Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, not just each other.

ENDS

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