The immigration authorities in Indonesia have detained 15 asylum seekers who were discovered camping outside the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) office in Setiabudi, South Jakarta. The group consisted of 13 adults and 2 children from Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Yemen, and Rohingya.
Silmy Karim, the Immigration Director General, announced that the refugees were brought to the Directorate General of Immigration building for registration. He stated that their information was documented and they were coordinated with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and UNHCR for placement in community housing.
Karim emphasized that the management of the refugees is governed by Presidential Regulation No. 125 of 2016, which involves multiple agencies including the Indonesian Military (TNI), National Police (Polri), Immigration, the National and Political Unity Office (Kesbangpol), and other organizations.
The refugees are treated differently from immigration detainees and are not subject to deportation. They are under the care of an organization appointed by the UN during their temporary stay in Indonesia until they are transferred to the destination country for refugees.
The authorities took this action in response to concerns about public order, sanitation, and the disruption caused by the tents set up by the asylum seekers. A joint team from the Public Order Agency, police, and military was responsible for removing the tents from the sidewalk.
It is crucial to acknowledge the challenges faced by asylum seekers who are compelled to flee their home countries due to conflicts, persecution, and human rights abuses. Providing a safe and secure environment for them is essential as they await further decisions on their asylum status.
As emphasized by Silmy Karim, it is imperative to collaborate with international organizations such as the UNHCR and IOM to ensure that the rights and well-being of refugees are safeguarded. The management of refugees requires a multi-agency approach, and cooperation is vital in addressing the complex issues involved in refugee resettlement.
The detention of the asylum seekers in South Jakarta underscores the need for a comprehensive and compassionate approach to refugee management. It serves as a reminder that behind the headlines and regulations, there are individuals and families seeking safety and stability in a world plagued by conflict and uncertainty.
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