At Emigrate Lawyers, we have cultivated a profound understanding of the conditions driving individuals to seek asylum in Australia. Through meticulous research and comprehensive evaluation of numerous protection visa applications, we’ve identified a list of ‘countries of concern’ based on their significant human rights violations and persecution risks.
After thorough consultations with relevant authorities and extensive research, we’ve compiled the following list of countries where individuals are at a heightened risk of human rights abuses. Applicants from these countries are more likely to succeed in their asylum claims, provided they meet the necessary criteria and the definition of a refugee.
Myanmar has been in turmoil since the military coup in February 2021, which ousted the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi. The coup has led to widespread protests and a brutal crackdown by the military, resulting in hundreds of deaths and thousands of arrests. The military’s actions have sparked international condemnation and raised concerns about human rights abuses and the erosion of democracy in Myanmar. Many people from Myanmar are seeking protection visas in Australia to escape persecution and violence perpetrated by the military junta.
Vietnam continues to be governed by the Communist Party, which maintains tight control over political dissent and freedom of expression. Despite economic reforms and increased international engagement, the government has cracked down on activists and bloggers, leading to a shrinking space for civil society and political opposition.
Sri Lanka faces challenges related to political instability, ethnic tensions, and human rights abuses. The government’s response to dissent, including the arrest of activists and journalists, has raised concerns about its commitment to democracy and reconciliation efforts following the civil war.
India is experiencing a rise in Hindu nationalism, which has led to increased tensions and discrimination against religious minorities, particularly Muslims. The government’s policies, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), have sparked protests and raised concerns about the erosion of secularism and democratic values.
Under President Xi Jinping, China has witnessed a tightening grip on political dissent, human rights, and freedom of expression. The government has implemented mass surveillance and censorship measures, cracked down on religious and ethnic minorities, and intensified control over Hong Kong, raising concerns about its commitment to international human rights standards.
Malaysia faces political challenges, including allegations of corruption, restrictions on freedom of expression, and ethnic tensions. The government’s policies, particularly those related to religion and race, have raised concerns about the erosion of democratic values and the rights of minorities.
Iran’s political landscape is marked by authoritarian control, with the government cracking down on dissent, human rights activists, and religious minorities. The country’s involvement in regional conflicts and its nuclear program have also strained international relations, leading to economic challenges and sanctions.
Afghanistan continues to grapple with instability and conflict, particularly with the resurgence of the Taliban and the presence of other extremist groups. The government faces challenges in ensuring security, delivering basic services, and protecting human rights, especially for women and minorities.
Indonesia has seen a rise in conservative Islamic influence, leading to concerns about the erosion of the country’s tradition of pluralism and tolerance. Religious minorities, such as Christians, Shia Muslims, and Ahmadiyyas, face discrimination and violence, while blasphemy laws are used to restrict freedom of expression.
Palestinians continue to face the challenges of living under Israeli occupation, including restrictions on movement, access to basic services, and economic opportunities. The ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including periodic escalations of violence, has led to displacement, trauma, and human rights abuses.
Saudi Arabia’s political landscape is characterized by authoritarian rule, with limited political freedoms and human rights abuses. The government’s crackdown on dissent, including the arrest of activists and critics, has raised concerns about its commitment to reform and human rights.
Yemen is experiencing a devastating humanitarian crisis due to ongoing conflict, exacerbated by regional rivalries and the presence of extremist groups. The conflict has led to widespread displacement, food insecurity, and lack of access to basic services, creating one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
Venezuela is in the midst of a severe political and economic crisis, marked by hyperinflation, food and medicine shortages, and political repression. The government’s authoritarian rule, human rights abuses, and crackdown on dissent have led to a humanitarian emergency, prompting many Venezuelans to flee the country.
The Philippines has faced criticism for President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial policies, including the war on drugs, which has led to thousands of extrajudicial killings. The government has also targeted activists, journalists, and political opponents, raising concerns about human rights abuses and the erosion of democratic norms.
Mexico continues to face challenges related to violence, corruption, and organized crime. The government’s efforts to combat drug cartels have led to increased militarization and human rights abuses, while issues such as poverty and inequality persist, driving some to seek asylum abroad.
Laos is governed by the Communist Party, which maintains tight control over political dissent and freedom of expression. The government’s policies, including restrictions on religious practices and freedom of speech, have led to concerns about human rights abuses and the shrinking space for civil society.
Ethiopia is facing political unrest and ethnic tensions, particularly in regions such as Tigray, Oromia, and Amhara. The government’s response to protests and dissent has led to human rights abuses and displacement. Additionally, the country faces challenges related to food insecurity, displacement, and economic instability.
Bangladesh faces challenges related to political violence, restrictions on freedom of expression, and human rights abuses. The government’s crackdown on dissent, including the arrest of activists and journalists, has raised concerns about its commitment to democracy and human rights.
Egypt’s political landscape is marked by authoritarian rule, with limited political freedoms and human rights abuses. The government’s crackdown on dissent, including the arrest of activists and journalists, has raised concerns about its commitment to democracy and human rights.
Cambodia’s political landscape is marked by authoritarian rule, with limited political freedoms and human rights abuses. The government’s crackdown on dissent, including the arrest of activists and journalists, has raised concerns about its commitment to democracy and human rights.