On boats and in dangerous border crossings, only a small percentage of people apprehended actually assert their fear of persecution in strict Refugee Convention terms.  While ICMC agrees with the UN Refugee Agency and States that it is essential to continue to identify and distinguish those who have claims to asylum, existing international law and architecture should not end the conversation--or the need of a protection response--towards the other survivors involved.

If violence in these crossing does not distinguish between refugees and other migrants, why should we distinguish who will receive phsyical and psychological care upon arrival? These people are victims and they need care. 

The development of appropriate steps and mechanisms of response need regional guidance.  Given its purview, authority and singular reputation, ICMC requests that the Council of Europe offer that guidance.

Council of Europe: developing humanitarian standards (598.85 KB)