Amnesty International disappointed by John Key’s refugee comments

Amnesty International is deeply disappointed in John Key’s comment at the Istanbul Peace Summit that there are no plans to increase New Zealand’s refugee quota.

“On the eve of ANZAC Day we mustn't forget that it is civilians who suffer much of the horror of wars and conflict. Playing our part in the international response to resettle the most vulnerable refugees is more important now than ever,” said Grant Bayldon, Executive Director at Amnesty International New Zealand.

Mr Key’s comments came after the Turkish President Erdogan, criticised Western countries for turning a blind eye to the refugee crisis caused by Islamic State.

“If New Zealand doesn’t do its fair share, how can it ask other countries to do theirs?” said Grant Bayldon.

New Zealand has not increased its refugee quota for 30 years. Amnesty International is calling on the Government to double the quota from the current 750. New Zealand ranks 87th in the world in per capita rankings for its total refugee resettlement. By comparison Australia takes three times as many refugees on a per capita basis.

“As New Zealand prepares for its presidency of the UN Security Council in July it must set an example and not leave neighbouring countries like Turkey to do it all. Other countries have stepped up: Germany is taking 30,000 Syrian refugees, Canada is taking 10,000,” said Grant Bayldon.

“New Zealand’s tiny refugee intake calls into question its Security Council election campaign which positioned that nation as being a good global citizen, punching above its weight on the world stage.”

ENDS

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