Recommendation 286

Respect its obligation not to return intercepted migrants in international waters in conformity with international law and norms

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State
Guatemala
Issue
Immigration and border protection
Population group
Migrants, refugees and asylum seekers
Australian Government Agency and/or Jurisdiction
  • Department of Home Affairs
Australia's Response
Notes (will not consider further at this time)
Australia's Position

Australia is a nation built on migration. The Australian Government's immigration and border protection policies recognise and reflect an enduring commitment to providing migrants with a safe, orderly and legal means to settlement in this country.

A critical element of the Australian Government's policies is sending a clear message that people smugglers cannot sell a path to Australia. If people attempt to reach Australia by boat, unlawfully, they will be safely returned, or transferred to a regional processing country for protection claims assessment by that country.

Addressing irregular migration, through secure borders, is essential in creating confidence that the Australian Government can mitigate risks, provide generous humanitarian assistance to vulnerable persons most in need, and support a wide range of migration pathways.