UN Refugee Agency Applauds Argentina

UN Refugee Agency Applauds Argentina For Approving New Law Protecting Rights

New York, Nov 10 2006 8:00PM

The United Nations refugee agency today welcomed Argentina’s recent approval of a refugee law, saying it provides a solid framework for protection of rights, and noting in particular its special provisions for refugee women and children.

Argentina’s Congress approved the refugee law last Wednesday, the latest move by the South American country that has been making steady progress over the past few years in handling refugee issues, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) said.

“The law provides a very solid framework for the full exercise of refugees’ rights. It guarantees the processing of asylum claims in a reasonable timeframe, facilitates access to documentation, education, health and employment,” UNHCR spokesperson William Spindler told reporters in Geneva.

“It has special provisions for refugee women, children and victims of violence… It is the result of the current Government’s demonstrated interest in human rights and refugee issues, as well as of a concerted effort by refugees, legislators, civil society and of UNHCR’s Office in Argentina.”

Argentina, which ratified the 1951 Refugee Convention over four decades ago, is host to more than 3,000 refugees from some 60 countries.

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