Cambodians wary of Australia refugee deal

25 May 2014
SBS
Government / Human rights / International relations / Migration / Population and censuses / Social development
Adhoc / Australian aid / Canberra / Nauru / Ny Chakrya / Papua New Guinea / Phay Siphan / Richard Bennett / Scott Morrison

Cambodians are worried about an influx of immigrants as the government nears a deal with Australia to accept refugees in return for cash. The two countries have been in discussion since February over plans to resettle an unspecified number of refugees in Cambodia. “Our country’s economy is weak, so there will be a lot of difficulties for us,” said Venerable Chheang Tola, a 23-year-old monk at the capital’s Wat Lanka. “When they come to live with us, we will be responsible for their health, clothes, and food while we are developing our country.” Currently, refugees who attempt to reach Australia by boat are diverted to detention centres in Papua New Guinea and Nauru. The Canberra government has made it clear that even those granted asylum will not be resettled in Australia. …

 SBS News Staff
http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2014/05/25/cambodians-wary-australia-refugee-deal