Process for the resettlement of refugees

The Australian - 26 July 2002

Dear Sir/Madam

Your article Chance of legal passage almost nil (The Australian, 24 July 2002) does not accurately portray the international or Australian process for the resettlement of refugees.

First of all, UNHCR considers resettlement of refugees in a third country only after it is clear that repatriation isn't possible in safety and dignity to their country of origin and nor is local integration in the country of first asylum possible where a person's protection cannot be secured. As such, resettlement will not be the appropriate durable solution for the majority of refugees.

UNHCR refers people for resettlement to a number of countries, including Australia.

Under Australia's Refugee and Humanitarian Program, priority is given to UNHCR referrals. Processing can take some time given the need to undergo necessary character and health checks. Mechanisms exist for emergency processing where there is an immediate protection need. Where people are not in need of immediate protection and can stay in the country of first asylum while being processed, their application will be dealt with in order of receipt.

The total number of refugee visas issued by the Australian High Commission in Islamabad in the 2000-2001 program year was 280 of which 109 went to Afghan nationals. In addition, the High Commission issued a further 384 visas in the Special Humanitarian Program and Special Assistance Categories during this year, 356 to Afghan nationals. Other grants were predominantly to Iranian and Iraqi nationals.

Stewart Foster
Director, Public Affairs
Dept of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs