3.
Screening
WHY WAS SCREENING INTRODUCED?
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Arrivals increased dramatically in 1988.
Hong Kong has largest
boat people population in region. Now 26,000 people in camps in Hong Kong. Highest number since 1979. Severely increased pressure on Hong Kong's resources and community.
Most of new arrivals were farmers and fishermen from North Vietnam. Economic migrants, not genuine refugees.
Virtually no hope of resettlement elsewhere. Policy of treating all as refugees eligible for resettlement had become untenable.
EFFECT OF NEW POLICY?
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New policy introduces screening in accordance with UNHCR guidelines. Genuine refugees will continue to have access to resettlement elsewhere. Non-refugees will be accommodated in Hong Kong while satisfactory arrangements are made for their eventual return to Vietnam.
SCREENING IS UNFAIR?
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Have sought to involve UNHCR, closely in all aspects of screening.
Full appeals procedure available.
ARPAOW (8)
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