The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), says it is concerned about the implications of last week’s ruling by High Court judge Frank Seepersad, which paved the way for any migrant, refugee or asylum-seeker to be immediately deported if they are deemed to have infringed any local laws.
In a release on Monday evening, the UNHCR is appealing to the Government to ensure their protection from forced return.
Seepersad ruled on a judicial review and constitutional claim by Venezuelan national Yohan Jesus Rangel Dominguez – who challenged a deportation order the Ministry of National Security issued in March.
The judge said obligations under the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and the principles of non-refoulement do not apply to TT, as they were not incorporated in domestic law.
The UNHCR, in the release, said it is not a claimant in the court proceedings but intervened as a third party because of its mandate to supervise the application of the 1951 Refugee Convention worldwide, a responsibility which was conferred on it by the UN General Assembly.
However, the international body said it welcomed comments by Judge Seepersad about the urgent need for a legislative response, and on the incorporation and integration of migrants into society and its workforce, as this approach can be to the economic benefit of Trinidad and Tobago.
The UNHCR added that it stands ready to support the government in developing such a system, as it does in other countries.