Australia and Syrian refugees

"Elaine Pearson, Australia director of Human Rights Watch, said it was "appalling" if the Australian government considered sending asylum seekers back to Syria. "Instead of pushing desperate people back to places where their lives are in danger, Australia should be offering sanctuary and protection to Syrians. Not dumping them on other countries where they are locked up and remain vulnerable," she said. "If Australia is putting pressure on Syrian citizens to return, this is in violation of international law and the principle of non-refoulement – not to return anyone, regardless of status, to a place where they would be persecuted." (thanks Amir)