10 December 2015

Amnesty International launches Our Voices - public submission process on the refugee quota

To mark Human Rights Day Amnesty International today launched a public submission process on the refugee quota - Our Voices.

The human rights organisation made the announcement outside Parliament in Wellington today, launching Our Voices as a chance for all New Zealanders to have their say on whether the Government should provide safety for more refugees each year.

“Often the best decisions are made when you seek input from lots of different voices,” said Grant Bayldon, Executive Director of Amnesty International in New Zealand.

“Next year the New Zealand government will be carrying out a review of the country’s refugee quota, and we know the Government is busy but Amnesty International believes it is important for all voices from the community to be heard on this issue.

“We want to hear from teachers and business leaders, from refugee community leaders, from faith communities, from students, mums, dads, grandparents and neighbours.”

Submissions will be open to the public via ourvoices.org.nz until 5.00pm on 5 February - people can submit written submissions, videos, photos and stories.

On 15 February 2016 Amnesty International will host a public hearing in Wellington for submissions, giving people the opportunity to submit in person.

“Today is Human Rights Day, it’s a day to celebrate our rights, but in a year that has seen the worst global refugee crisis in 70 years we can’t forget the plight of those children, women and men who are fleeing war and persecution and seeking safety,” said Grant Bayldon.

“We can’t stand by while so many other people internationally need our support, it’s time to amplify our voices and remind the Government that we do care about the plight of other people world-wide.”

“Amnesty International is excited to be able to provide this platform for our voices to be heard and then passed on to decision makers.”

ENDS

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