The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has facilitated the return of 152 Tamil refugees to Sri Lanka despite continued protests and calls to be resettled in another country.
These refugees were initially saved by Singaporean authorities who rescued a vessel that was at risk of sinking in waters near Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines. They had fled Sri Lanka in hopes of getting to Canada by boat from Myanmar. However, following their rescue, they were taken to refugees in Vietnam.
An estimated 305 Tamil refugees were stained in 3 refugee camps in Vietnam and were looked after by the IOM, providing basic necessities, including food and medical aid.
Upon hearing that they would be returned to Sri Lanka, these refugees protested vociferously. During these protests, two of the group attempted suicide on November 18. While they were both taken to the hospital, Kiritharan was not able to be resuscitated. His death was announced on November 24.
“We are pleading with UNHCR and in this very difficult situation, we request you to take us seriously and help us to resettle in countries with refugee status. We are waiting for your reply and kindly and humbly request you to extend us a helping hand” a statement from the refugees read.
The economic crisis in Sri Lanka has seen an increasing number of Sri Lankans fleeing the island. Tamils continue to face threats of torture and sexual abuse from Sri Lanka’s security forces and have seen their land increasing subject to militarisation.
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