Hungarian legislation on the systematic detention of migrants came into force today, despite strong criticism from human rights NGOs, and the EU called for respect for its humanitarian "values", according to an AFP report. , broadcast by the Athenian News Agency.
Under the new legislation, all asylum seekers present or arriving in Hungary must be housed in two closed camps on the border with Serbia, in Rozke and Toba, the interior ministry said.
"As of today, the enlarged transit zones are open 24 hours a day for asylum seekers," said Giorgi Bakodi, an adviser to Prime Minister Victor Orban on domestic security.
The measure aims to "prevent migrants whose status has not been clearly defined, to move freely within the national territory and within the EU and thus reduce the security risks associated with immigration," the ministry said. .
The camps are equipped with 324 habitable containers. Immigrants will have to stay there while awaiting a positive decision on their asylum application and will not be able to leave these places unless their application is approved or if they return to Serbia, according to the this source.
The law, which was passed on March 7 at Orban's suggestion, has been denounced by many NGOs as well as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, which has said it "violates Hungary's obligations under international and European law". on asylum.
European Commissioner for Immigration Dimitris Avramopoulos, who is visiting Budapest, today called for the "principles" of the EU to be respected, without explicitly mentioning the new measure.
"Our Union intends to offer humane and dignified assistance with respect to those in need," he said after meeting with Hungarian Interior Minister Santor Pinter. "This means that real access to the asylum process must be offered" and that there is a guarantee "of the possibility of appealing against the decisions which will be examined impartially", added Mr. Avramopoulos.
The Hungarian government has assured that the camps, which are not open to journalists, are equipped with modern equipment and that their occupants will enjoy three meals a day as well as access to health care and telecommunications.
Source: newsbeast.gr