UNHCR’s Representation for the Nordic and Baltic Countries has submitted its observations on the Proposal to amend the Finnish Aliens Act (the Government’s proposal to the parliament to amend the Aliens Act and related laws).
The Proposal seeks to introduce a border procedure to allow for fast processing of certain applications for international protection at the external border. Asylum-seekers channeled through the border procedure will be required to stay at the border, in transit areas, or in their vicinity, for the duration of the procedure, to prevent unauthorized movements within Finland or to other countries. While within the border procedure, the applicant is not considered to have entered the territory. The applicant would be granted access to the territory only if no decision at first instance is made within four weeks.
UNHCR’s position is that any border procedure must be carried out in line with legal and procedural safeguards from the outset, and with full respect for the right to seek asylum and the principle of non-refoulement.
UNHCR recommends the Government of Finland to ensure that the screening and triaging of asylum applications presented at the border is carried out by a single, centrally specialized authority with sufficient knowledge and training. UNHCR also recommends the Government refrains from applying border procedures to unaccompanied and separated children, victims of trauma or trafficking, and persons with mental disabilities, and ensures that detention remains an exception.
UNHCR’s observations can be found here.
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