In response to Finland’s temporary closure of its Eastern land border, Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights, Dunja Mijatović, has penned a letter to Interior Minister Mari Rantanen expressing apprehension over potential violations of refugee rights and human rights safeguards.
While acknowledging Finland’s concerns regarding the movement of asylum seekers and migrants, particularly regarding possible exploitation by the Russian Federation, Commissioner Mijatović stresses the importance of upholding human rights obligations, even in challenging border situations.
The Commissioner highlights the potential impact of border closures on asylum seekers’ rights, including the right to seek asylum and the principle of non-refoulement. She requests clarification on safeguards implemented to protect human rights and prevent a humanitarian crisis, especially considering the worsening weather conditions at the border.
This letter builds upon previous dialogue concerning legislative amendments allowing Finland to restrict border access and concentrate asylum applications at specific crossing points, underscoring the ongoing importance of upholding human rights standards amidst border management measures.
