Human Rights Watch Criticizes Australia’s Treatment of Asylum Seekers and Youth Offenders

A recent report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) highlights significant concerns regarding Australia's treatment of asylum seekers and youth offenders, describing the situation as "diabolical" and "appalling." The HRW report, which reviews human rights practices in over 100 countries, asserts that Australia is regressing in its handling of vulnerable populations.

The report draws attention to the Northern Territory's decision to reinstate spit hoods for youth detainees and the ongoing practice of detaining children in watch houses in Queensland. It cites alarming findings, including footage of children in isolation cells struggling to breathe. The Queensland government's enactment of laws labeling "adult crime, adult time" has further exacerbated these issues, increasing maximum sentences for youth offenders despite acknowledging violations against international and state human rights standards.

HRW's Australia director, Daniela Gavshon, argues that these developments represent a negligent disregard for international norms. The report also criticizes Australia’s treatment of asylum seekers, particularly those transferred to detention facilities on Nauru, many of whom have had their communications restricted. Despite the federal government's recent legislative changes allowing payments to third countries for accepting non-citizens, the report emphasizes that Australia continues to evade its international obligations regarding asylum seekers.

As Australia approaches a federal election, Gavshon warns against political rhetoric that demonizes asylum seekers and refugees, urging the public to remember their humanity. The report raises alarm over the implications these practices hold not only for Australia but also as a precedent for other nations.