UNHCR expresses concern about danger facing Sri Lankan refugees on high seas
UNHCR is deeply concerned about the recent drowning of ten Sri Lankan refugees traveling by boat to India. Many refugees fleeing localized violence are being put at great risk by unscrupulous traffickers who operate unseaworthy and overcrowded vessels.
The drowning on 19 May was the latest in a series of incidents involving Sri Lankan refugees traveling to India, which includes abandonment at sea, capsized vessels, and previous fatalities.
Vulnerable passengers such as women, children and the elderly may be subjected to additional hardship en route, such as sexual and gender-based violence, and a greater susceptibility to adverse weather conditions.
“While everyone has an inalienable right to claim asylum, UNHCR urges those planning on making the perilous journey to Tamil Nadu, to carefully consider the serious dangers they may face,” said Amin Awad, UNHCR Representative in Sri Lanka.
UNHCR continues to work closely on this issue with all concerned parties.
[UNHCR Press Release]
