Secret 'enhanced screening' of asylum seekers

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2013

Authors

Reilly, A.
La Forgia, R.

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Journal article

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Alternative Law Journal�, 2013; 38(3):143-146

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Alex Reilly and Rebecca La Forgia

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Abstract

Recent developments in Refugee policy have seen a divesting of responsibility to other nations. This process of divestment occurred last year in an earlier incarnation of asylum seeker policy, when Sri Lankan asylum seekers were targeted for a secret pre-screening process conducted by a Commonwealth officer. In this article, we explain how it is possible that such a secret procedure can occur in our name, but without our knowledge. By divesting the responsibility to the Commonwealth Officer, we have no real understanding of the issues, and consequently no capacity to engage in meaningful debate, or to challenge our beliefs and actions. If we are not able to see or hear the asylum seekers’ circumstances clearly and publicly then we lose the possibility of a democratic relationship among ourselves.

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© 2013 Alex Reilly and Rebecca LaForgia

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