Saturday, May 30, 2015

05.31.15 Update on asylum seekers

Went by this morning to see the men from the green boat. They all look well. There was a representative from the UN refugee agency in Australia who interviewed them separately and as a group. She asked them why they left their own countries. At the end of the meeting, she said she could not promise thm refugee status (this is all second and third hand reporting  now), was not certain that they would qualify for refugee status, and that it could take four to five years for them to be relocated. On the one hand it is good that the UNHRC made contact, on the other hand it is extremely discouraging that the process - if they were confirmed to be refugees - could take so many years. These are youbng vibrant men who could lead productive lives if given the chance. They need that chance. They do not feel that they could go back home. It was suggested that they move fromt eh village to a city to avoid any reprisals, but that is truly wishful thinking. I do not believe that that is a workable option for them. And neither do they.

On a nice note, they are making roti and Indian/Nepalese types of food. I saw them with fresh vegetables too. They should be allowed to open a restaurant here - the ex-Pats in particular would love a good curry. And their little Hope  is not so little any more. He is growing up to be quite the active puppy. He can out wrestle Shorty! Wish I  had the camera but this was an impromptu visit. I'll take a few photos of them cooking next weekend.

3 comments:

  1. Dr please I always ask India and Nepal are better place for them All are waiting for them It is matter of fraud from an Indonesian agent who give them false hope that he help to settled them in any country like Australia,New Zealand ,America etc

    ReplyDelete
  2. Dr their families are in false hope that they all (green boat men)get Visa of America ,New zealand and Australua etc in one month that is impossible in very short time please share with their families do something for them *MEN FROM Green Boat INDIA IS A BIGGEST democratic and developing country who has lot of oppurtunities for these men Thanks Dr For always help us .

    ReplyDelete
  3. You have some decisions to make! Who can you believe?

    ReplyDelete