The European Union
called on Lebanon Saturday not to send Syrian refugees back across the border,
expressing concern that they were not being protected and could face torture if
forced to return.
A statement issued on
behalf of the top EU diplomat, Catherine Ashton, said she was "concerned
by the recent reports of expulsion by the Lebanese authorities of Syrian
nationals to Syria."
"Today Syria is in
a situation where people's lives are at risk across the country, including well
documented reports of torture," the statement said.
"Lebanon must
ensure that no deportation takes place outside the framework of its
international obligations, and that effective and transparent procedures are in
place, in consultation with all appropriate domestic and international
organizations.”
The EU noted Beirut had
given assurances with regard to respect for its international obligations and
had extended support to those fleeing the violence in Syria.
"The EU is
assisting the Lebanese authorities in addressing the constraints and challenges
this situation places on the country, in terms of rule of law, protection,
safety and security, social and economic development," it said.
"The EU reiterates
expectations concerning the responsibility of the Lebanese authorities to
continue to provide protection, in line with the principle of
non-refoulement," it added.
On Wednesday, the General
Security deported 14 Syrians and said the reasons for the expulsions were not
political but a Human Rights Watch representative in Beirut said some of the
deportees had expressed fears of persecution on their return.http://www.naharnet.com/stories/en/48922
No comments:
Post a Comment