UNHCR condemns refoulement of Eman Al Obeidi to Libya

Briefing notes

UNHCR condemns refoulement of Eman Al Obeidi to Libya

This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at today's press briefing at the Palais des Nations in Geneva.

3 June 2011

Yesterday's forced return of Libyan national, Eman Al Obeidi, by Qatar to Libya violates international law. Ms Al Obeidi has been recognized as a refugee by UNHCR. UNHCR was present at the hotel where Ms Al Obeidi was staying in Qatar, ready to accompany her to the airport to travel to an emergency transit centre in Romania. She was prevented from leaving for this flight in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Ms Al Obeidi was transported against her will to Benghazi on a flight by Qatar early Thursday. UNHCR is seeking to meet with Ms Al Obeidi and her family this morning in Benghazi. Every effort will be made to ensure that their best interests are respected.

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