Press Release: Ireland in Arabic Endorses Civil Society Coalition’s Recommendations for Protecting the Rights of Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Ireland in Arabic is proud to join a coalition of 22 civil society organizations in endorsing comprehensive recommendations for political party manifestos in the upcoming general election. The coalition’s recommendations focus on the protection of refugees and asylum seekers by addressing key policy areas such as homelessness, the right to asylum, integration, safeguarding young people, and residency pathways for Ukrainian refugees.

The coalition highlights the alarming situation faced by asylum seekers, characterized by widespread homelessness, deteriorating standards in state-provided accommodation, restrictions on the right to seek asylum, and growing hostility. The coalition, along with Ireland in Arabic, urges all political parties to commit to implementing these proposed changes in their manifestos and any government program formed after the election.

Key recommendations adopted by Ireland in Arabic include:

1. End homelessness for asylum seekers and improve reception conditions:
   Over 5,500 protection applicants have faced homelessness since January 2023, with more than 2,700 currently without accommodation. Immediate actions are needed to accommodate those who are homeless and to improve the conditions in state-provided accommodations. The focus should shift to long-term planning and increasing oversight of accommodation centers, along with reinstating vulnerability assessments.

2. Protect the fundamental right to seek asylum:
   Punitive measures, such as operations targeting individuals at airports and prosecutions for lacking documentation, undermine the right to seek asylum. These measures should be halted, and access to legal aid should be improved. The ‘safe countries’ policy should be reviewed, and the implementation of the Pact on Asylum should minimize negative impacts on those seeking protection.

3. Build effective communication with local communities:
   To combat disinformation, a government-led communications campaign is necessary, along with increased resources for local health and community services. Funding for schools should also be increased to promote trauma awareness, intercultural education, and anti-racism initiatives.

4. Support asylum seekers and refugees in building new lives:
   The practice of relocating individuals with legal status should be stopped, and resources should be allocated to help them transition from Direct Provision into communities. The Daily Expenses Allowance should be increased, and the overdue International Protection Child Payment should be implemented.

5. Protect children and young people in the international protection process:
   The coalition calls for reduced reliance on unregulated emergency accommodation, increased funding for Tusla’s Separated Children Seeking International Protection team, and the employment of more youth workers to support integration and inclusion efforts.

6. Continue welcoming refugees from Ukraine:
   While Ireland’s initial response to the Ukrainian refugee crisis was commendable, there is now a need for a post-temporary protection plan outlining a pathway to residency and citizenship. Accommodation strategies must be revised to ensure continued support for those seeking refuge from Ukraine.

By endorsing these recommendations, Ireland in Arabic reaffirms its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of asylum seekers and refugees, ensuring they are given the opportunity to rebuild their lives in a supportive and inclusive environment.