PRESS STATEMENT ON AFRICA REFUGEE DAY

DITSHWANELO - The Botswana Centre for Human Rights observes Africa Refugee Day on 20 June. It is a time for reflection on the challenges faced by refugees, asylum seekers and illegal immigrants on the continent.

DITSHWANELO believes in the inherent dignity of every human being and in their right to equality before the law, irrespective of political convictions.

With some of our neighbouring countries in social, economic and political turmoil, we, as citizens of Botswana, will continue to be affected.

DITSHWANELO recognises that it is a crime to violently overthrow a democratically elected government. We also recognise that international instruments require that alleged criminals be returned for trial at the place where the crime was committed. However, we cannot ignore the right of alleged criminals to due process of the law, protection from torture and the right to a fair trial. We believe that it is the responsibility of the host government to ensure that the human rights of asylum seekers and illegal immigrants are protected.

We call upon the Government of Botswana to publicly commit itself to protecting people against torture by ratifying the Convention Against Torture. DITSHWANELO also urges the Government of Botswana to seriously consider the potential danger faced by asylum seekers when deported or extradited to the countries from which they have fled.

DITSHWANELO - The Botswana Centre for Human Rights remains committed to the peaceful resolution of conflicts in the region. We believe that economic, social and political stability are prerequisites for the enjoyment, promotion and protection of universal human rights.

20 June 2000
Gaborone