The Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo has urged parliament not to weaken a deportation bill that would allow Finnish border authorities to refuse to accept asylum applications in certain circumstances. The government aims to pass this measure in response to a surge in asylum seekers attempting to cross the country’s border with Russia. Orpo emphasized the importance of not watering down the law, as it is essential for Finland’s security. The extraordinary law, if passed, would be in effect for a year and requires the support of five-sixths of MPs. The parliament is expected to vote on the bill before the July vacation holiday.
The draft law has raised concerns among human rights advocates, who argue that it may violate international obligations on non-refoulement and human rights. The Russian border has been closed since December due to the mass arrival of undocumented migrants, which Finnish officials believe is part of a hybrid influence operation orchestrated from Moscow. Despite this, more than 200 researchers have signed a petition urging the parliament to reject the draft law, pointing out that the number of asylum seekers in Finland last year was within the average range. Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe, Michael O’Flaherty, also raised concerns about the legislation and called on Finnish lawmakers to reject it.
The proposed law would grant Finnish border authorities the power to refuse to accept asylum applications under certain circumstances. Prime Minister Orpo emphasized the importance of passing this law to secure the country’s borders. He expressed hope that the parliament would find solutions to secure the necessary majority for the bill to be passed. The law would be in effect for a year and requires the support of five-sixths of MPs. MPs are expected to vote on the bill before the July vacation holiday.
The draft law has stirred controversy, with human rights advocates raising concerns about potential violations of international obligations and human rights. The closure of the Russian border in December due to the influx of undocumented migrants has prompted the government to take action. Despite this, critics argue that the law is unnecessary and could harm vulnerable asylum seekers. The petition signed by over 200 researchers highlights the need for the parliament to dismiss the draft law and reconsider its implications.
Commissioner for Human Rights of the Council of Europe, Michael O’Flaherty, has also weighed in on the legislation, citing significant human rights concerns. He urged Finnish lawmakers to reject the bill to uphold human rights standards. The debate over the deportation law reflects larger tensions around immigration policies and border security in Europe. The outcome of the parliamentary vote will have far-reaching implications for asylum seekers and human rights in Finland.
In conclusion, the deportation bill in Finland has sparked debate over the country’s immigration policies and human rights obligations. Prime Minister Orpo has emphasized the importance of passing the law to secure the country’s borders in response to a surge in asylum seekers at the Russian border. Critics argue that the law may violate international obligations and human rights standards, urging lawmakers to reject it. The parliamentary vote on the bill will determine its fate and have significant implications for asylum seekers and human rights in Finland.
