TNAG-1523-FCO40-2087-Hong-Kong-Parliamentary-Sub-Committee-on-Race-Relations-and--1986 — Page 151

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We would therefore appreciate more rapid decision-making in order to prevent the above-mentioned negative developments and in order to reduce the need for applications for resettlement on emergency grounds.

Limited resettlement offers for Afghan, Iranian and Iraqi refugees:

During 1984 and 1985 it has been very difficult to find resettlement places for disabled refugees, especially for those suffering psychosomatic consequences of torture. France, Denmark and The Netherlands were the main countries able to assist these groups. Assistance from countrias who have the appropriate infrastructure to rehabilitate these refugees is greatly needed.

It should be noted that Belgium and Canada are assisting victims of torture from Latin and Central America, the first under the "TOM" plan, and the second under regular refugee resettlement procedures.

Mentally disturbed refuzees:

The resettlement of this category of refugees is a very acute problem. From 1981 to 1985 Franca, Switzerland and Belgium were the only countries admitting such cases for resettlement. Difficulties occur að the same countries are repeatedly requested to assist because other countries do not yet share the burden.

Particular attention should be given to the family reunion of such patients who are considered inadmissible.

At present the practice of some countries is not to admit such rafugees unless, for one year subsequent to the treatment of the last episode, the refugee has been clear of symptoms. However, the life in a camp hardly contributes towards any improvement of a refugee's mental health. Several factors have to be taken into account, such as the lack of appropriate social/family support, the lack of adequate psychiatric treatment or medication and other restrictions. The stress of being separated from their families already in third countries, is seriously contributing to the deterioration of health and is, in some cases, resulting in suicide.

A government authority deciding about the admission of mentally disturbad refugees normally finds it difficult to consider those with family links in third countries. Here again. the lack of family support is considered a negative factor for the longterm treatment, rehabilitation and eventual integration of the refugee.

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