20/13836: Motion to Provide Culturally and Geographically Appropriate Housing for Refugees – Consistent Implementation of Article 33 of the Geneva Refugee Convention (PDF)
Submitted by: The Left Party
Date: November 18, 2024
Time: 11:00 AM
Summary:
This motion calls for the consistent implementation of Article 33 of the Geneva Refugee Convention, which obliges states to provide refugees with “living conditions as nearly normal as possible” and to “take into account the cultural and ethnic background” of refugees when determining their housing arrangements.
Background:
The motion argues that the current practice of housing refugees in large, centralized facilities often leads to social isolation, loss of cultural identity, and mental health problems. It points to evidence that culturally and geographically appropriate housing can improve health outcomes, reduce language barriers, and foster social integration.
Key Points:
- The motion calls on the government to ensure that refugees are housed in accommodations that are:
- Located in neighborhoods with similar cultural and linguistic communities
- Designed to preserve the refugees’ cultural and linguistic identity
- Appropriate for the size and composition of refugee families
- The motion also calls for the provision of support services, such as language classes, cultural orientation, and family reunification assistance, to help refugees integrate into their new communities.
Arguments in Favor:
- Humanitarian concerns: Providing culturally and geographically appropriate housing is a matter of basic human dignity and respect for the rights of refugees.
- Integration benefits: Culturally and linguistically appropriate housing can facilitate social integration and improve the well-being of refugees.
- Cost-effectiveness: Studies have shown that providing culturally appropriate housing can reduce long-term healthcare and social welfare costs.
Arguments Against:
- Practical challenges: Finding culturally and geographically appropriate housing for all refugees may be difficult in some areas.
- Cost: Providing culturally appropriate housing may be more expensive than other housing options.
- Potential for segregation: Critics argue that providing culturally appropriate housing could lead to the creation of segregated refugee communities.
Conclusion:
The motion to provide culturally and geographically appropriate housing for refugees is a complex and controversial issue. While there are strong arguments in favor of providing such housing, there are also practical challenges and potential drawbacks to consider. The government will need to carefully weigh these factors when making a decision on this important issue.
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