|
7th October 2002
UNHCR Response to David Blunkett’s
proposals for asylum reform
UNHCR
recognises that all states have a right to manage the process of
asylum properly. This is in everyone’s interests, including
those who are seeking protection from persecution, because otherwise
trust in the concept of asylum will be undermined. Thus UNHCR welcomes
measures that will achieve the fair, efficient and effective administration
of the asylum system.
Resettlement:
Mr
Blunkett’s commitment that the UK should become a country
of resettlement for refugees who have been assessed as refugees
by UNHCR is a welcome part of this process. UNHCR hopes that this
will be put into practice in terms of meaningful numbers.
“Safe”
Countries:
UNHCR
has said that no country can be declared 100% safe. But as the High
Commissioner Ruud Lubbers has noted, we do need accelerated procedures
for those who come from countries that do not normally produce refugees.
So we need some new thinking on this – a practical system
where we can still identify the exceptional cases who need protection,
while at the same time having accelerated and simplified appeal
procedures. This is something UNHCR is willing to help governments
develop. For example, we could jointly identify specific groups
of asylum seekers with regards to whom such procedures would apply.
UNHCR
has a direct role in how the Convention is interpreted and implemented
and will wish to be part of a continuing, detailed discussion with
the UK Government on all of these issues. The High Commissioner
has said that UNHCR is willing to be a partner with governments
in finding solutions to the very real problems of migration and
asylum that many countries in Western Europe are currently facing.
UNHCR
is concerned by the proposal to restrict Exceptional Leave to Remain
(ELR). ELR is a crucial safeguard for many people who are fleeing
civil war and generalised violence, and are under a genuine threat
in their home countries. Many need and deserve protection, but may
not receive it under the strict definition of refugee status as
set out by the Convention.
UNHCR
welcomes Mr Blunkett's commitment to the 1951 Refugee Convention,
and his comment that "We have an absolute moral obligation
to provide a safe haven for people fleeing persecution". UNHCR
supports Mr Blunkett’s call for the fair, efficient and effective
administration of the asylum system in the UK.
Ends
|
