Today the French authorities started demolishing part of the ‘Jungle’ camp following Thursday’s court-awarded eviction order. Amid scenes of violence, up to 200 residents are currently affected, with further demolitions expected in the next few weeks until the camp is cleared.
“As the demolition of the Calais ‘Jungle’ start, the French authorities must ensure that they don’t bulldoze through the rights of refugees and migrants, many of whom are likely to be extremely vulnerable,” said Colm O’Gorman, Executive Director of Amnesty International Ireland.
“While the current situation in Calais is clearly unsustainable, evictions are no solution to a crisis on which the French and British governments have turned their backs for years. The authorities need to look at this situation holistically: not just out of concern for border-management, housing and hygiene. Each of these individuals has needs and rights that must be protected.
“The French authorities must ensure those evicted are meaningfully consulted and that all their options are considered. This includes facilitating access to asylum proceedings in France and visas to the UK for those with family members there, or other good grounds for admission.”