Stop shameful treatment of the most vulnerable in our society

Australians historically have always had a deep abhorrence of cruelty and indifference shown to the most vulnerable; nationally and internationally. The recent escalation of tragic events and the ongoing uncovering of inhumane and indifferent attitudes by the Australian Government at Manus Island and other places of detention, leading to recent human loss of life, hopelessness and desperate acts must cease and refugees must be given speedy, viable and accountable options for a life lived with dignity and with hope of being reunited with their family members in the near future.

We demand that this present Government abide by the guidelines given by the United Nations High Commissioner of Refugees, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and others regarding treatment of refugees by hosting nations.

International human rights law encompasses:
■ the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR);
■ the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR); and
■ the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).

Article 25 of the UDHR recognizes the right of every person to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of her- or himself and her/his family, including food, clothing, accommodation, medical care and necessary social services.