ALHR Condemns Australian Government Refusal to Cooperate with UN

September 30, 2015

ALHR condemns the Australian Government’s refusal to assure complete freedom of inquiry to the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Human Rights of Migrants, Francois Crépaeu, during his planned visit to Australia, forcing him to postpone the visit.   Mr Crépaeu said that he was forced to postpone his visit to Australia because the Australian Government refused provide a written guarantee that those meeting with him would not be subject to intimidation or sanctions under the Border Force Act.

Claire Hammerton, spokesperson for Australian Lawyers for Human Rights said “by refusing to guarantee the assurances requested by the UN Special Rapporteur, the Australian Government has shown once again its lack of respect for human rights and for its international obligations to make sure those seeking asylum are protected from harm”.

For further information please contact: Claire Hammerton, National Committee Member & Chair of Refugee Subcommittee
M: 0422 168 797 E: refugees@alhr.org.au