More than 30 seek refuge in Fiji

​Thirteen refugees are currently in the country.

This was revealed by the Immigration Director Nemani Vuniwaqa after more than 30 applications from foreigners seeking asylum in Fiji were processed.

A total of 34 applications to seek asylum in the country were processed by the Immigration Department.

Only 20 refugees were confirmed with 13 remaining in the country.

“ The UNCHR regions office is based in Canberra is assisting them in terms of funds and monthly allowance. They are liaising with the team here at the department in ensuring these people are cared for,” said Vuniwaqa.

Fiji has a duty to take in asylum seekers as a signatory of the Convention And Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees under the United Nations Refugee Agency.

Vuniwaqa said the accommodation and allowance for these refugees are taken care of by the UN Refugee Agency.

“The confirmed ones are 8 from Afghanistan, Somalia, one from Pakistan, Nigeria, Eritrea and Ghana. I’m aware of a Congolese who has moved on to France and Russians who have moved on to New Zealand after the determination process. We have a Tunisian who is still waiting for the outcome of the determination process, a Bangladeshi who is also still awaiting the outcome and an Afghanistani whose claims have not been verified. He’s appealed the decision and the appeal was turned down,” said Vuniwaqa.

These refugees also have the liberty to apply for employment in the country as well as citizenship.

“The process is such that they’ll be issued with refugees ID card once they’re confirmed, they’ll be issued with refugee cards to substantiate their identity. They can apply for work and once they attain requirements of being a citizen they can apply for citizenship,” said Vuniwaqa.

Seven of those who had sought asylum in Fiji have been transferred to other countries.