UNHCR Observation on the Finnish Proposal to amend the Aliens Act

UNHCR Representation for the Nordic and Baltic Countries has submitted its observations on the Finnish Government’s Proposal to amend the Aliens Act (Hallituksen esitys eduskunnalle ulkomaalaislain muuttamisesta).

The Proposal contains several proposed amendments to the Finnish Aliens Act, however, UNHCR focused on its most urgent concerns regarding the Proposal, that is, a) read-back of interview transcripts to applicants, b) sur place recognition in subsequent applications and c) travel to the country of origin as a ground for cessation, specifically where it is considered to indicate “ceased circumstances”.

UNHCR is recommends Finland to retain the practice of reading back to the applicant the interview transcript of the core elements essential for determination of the refugee claim to ensure fairness and efficiency (“frontloading”) of the asylum process. UNHCR further recommends that Finland refrain from introducing a new provision regarding sur place claims presented in subsequent applications, where refugees, who otherwise qualify for refugee status, would not be granted such status, if it is assessed that their actions or conduct that gave rise to international protection needs was intentional and for the purpose of obtaining such status. Lastly, UNHCR is concerned regarding the expanded scope of the “ceased circumstances” cessation clauses in Finnish law.

UNHCR’s observations can be found here.