92002E2566

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2566/02

by Anna Karamanou (PSE) to the Commission

(16 September 2002)

Subject: Mass repatriation of Afghan refugees

The prevailing insecurity in Afghanistan, which is related to the climate of violence in the country ongoing conflict, crime, banditry, the violation of women's rights, the presence of mines and the American forces' bombing campaign together with the incapacity to absorb repatriated Afghans, are a direct threat to the safe return of Afghan refugees who are displaced internally in the country and abroad.

In its report entitled Continuing need for protection and standards for return of Afghan refugees, Amnesty International expresses concern at the policy of mass repatriation promoted by the UNHCR in cooperation with the countries sheltering Afghan refugees, stressing that, in such circumstances, international standards should apply, as they are of vital importance to ensure that Afghan refugees can return in safety and dignity. Otherwise, the organisation warns that the situation may result in renewed cycles of displacement.

Will the Commission intervene to prevent the use of compulsory and coercive measures to return to Afghanistan refugees who may suffer serious human rights abuses, and to ensure that international standards of protection for refugees are applied?

Answer given by Mr Patten on behalf of the Commission

(31 October 2002)

The Honourable Member is referred to the answer given by the Commission to Oral Question H-0666/02 from Mr Lund(1) at Parliament's October 2002 Part-Session II.

(1) Written Answer of 22.10.2002.