Statement by AKEL’s Immigration Policy Bureau on the Interior Minister’s decree that prohibits the settlement of asylum seekers in Chloraka
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 15th January 2021, Nicosia
Regarding the decree issued by the Interior Minister prohibiting the settlement of Applicants for International Protection within the administrative boundaries of the local community of Chloraka on the pretext that “a demographic change has taken place in that community” and that it represents a measure to “immediately respond for reasons of public order and public interest”. AKEL expresses its strong dissatisfaction with this unprecedented action.
This decree violates the European directive, according to which our national legislation guarantees the right of free movement, settlement and accomadation of asylum seekers. The Interior Minister’s decree also violates the letter and spirit of the Charter of Fundamental Rights, which we first and foremost must respect and safeguard.
AKEL calls on the Government to immediately withdraw this decree and to handle the refugee issue by adopting a human-centered approach, with measures being implemented within the framework of international and European law and with respect for human rights.