Such an approach is in contradiction to the European Convention on Human Rights, which is anchored in the Austrian Constitution, the head of state found on social media on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) issued a recommendation not to deport Afghans back to their homeland.
The “Non-Return Advisory” includes asylum seekers whose applications have been rejected, said spokesman Shabia Mantoo on Tuesday in Geneva. Interior Minister Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) is still sticking to deportations, despite criticism from many quarters. Previously, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres appealed to the world community to take in Afghan refugees and to suspend deportations to Afghanistan.
Austria and the European Union must support those who are now threatened and, if necessary, give these people protection, explained Van der Bellen. “The current development in Afghanistan is shocking and deeply affected,” said Van der Bellen. “I am particularly concerned about all women and girls whose basic rights to freedom, professional practice and education are now massively endangered, as well as members of minorities.” Afghan citizens who want to leave their country should be able to do so freely, safely and across open borders, as well as citizens of other countries who are in Afghanistan.
“At the same time, Austria and the EU must use all remaining economic and political means to influence the Taliban, even if it will not be easy at the moment,” continued the Federal President.
