Writing for the World Policy blog, Sustainable Security Programme Manager Ben Zala analyses the recent announcement of Australia and Malaysia’s agreement to “swap” asylum seekers. He argues that the deal starkly demonstrates how willing decision-makers are to react quickly, rather than find sustainable solutions to the global refugee crisis. The deal obligates Malaysia to accept 800 refugees who have arrived by boat into Australian territory; in return, Australia will accept 4,000 long-term refugees from Malaysia over a four year period.

The latest in a long line of Australia’s attempts to avoid dealing with the root cause of the problem and pass on accountability, this new deal signifies a disturbing sign of things to come. Addressing the unauthorized arrival of asylum seekers from the Global South in the wealthy and stable countries of the North (including the geographically southern Australia) requires long-term, comprehensive solutions—not a short-term passing of the buck.

Until legitimate attempts are made to address the problems driving refugees out of their homes—such as on-going military conflicts, economic insecurity, and increasing environmental and resource constraints—the problem will only continue to get worse.

Read the full article here.
 

Photo credit: Dylan Thomas / UKaid / Department for International Development