Amnesty International researchers have been on Manus Island for several days interviewing a wide range of people about the human rights issues related to the proposed closure of the refugee detention centre at Lombrum
Amnesty International is concerned about what it has heard so far regarding restricting food, power, water, medical and transport services for refugees, as well as the deteriorating mental health of refugees and fears of violence should the move go ahead.
Australian and Papua New Guinean authorities must respect the rights of those affected by the proposed move and avoid exacerbating an already extremely tense situation.
“Both PNG security officials and private security contractors, whether they are Papua New Guinean or foreign nationals, must abide by international obligations and refrain from excessive use of force,” said Kate Schuetze, Pacific Researcher with Amnesty International.
“The Australian and Papua New Guinean governments must take all necessary steps to prevent violence against refugees from the community and ensure their safety.”
Amnesty International is calling on the Australian government to accept its responsibility to protect the human rights of all those who have come under its jurisdiction as people seeking refuge, and put an end to the use of offshore processing centres.
Amnesty International researchers will remain on the ground over the coming days and will be monitoring and observing the situation.
