The Application of the Non-Refoulement Principle as a Form of Protection for Refugees in Semarang City

Abstract

This research aims to identify and analyze the handling of refugees from abroad or stateless who enter the jurisdiction of Semarang City. The 1951 Refugee Convention has set minimum standards for the treatment of refugees, including their basic rights. Besides, the 1951 Convention also prohibits expulsion and forced repatriation of people with refugee status, which is referred to as the principle of non-refoulement. This research used the socio-legal research method. The primary data used was based on observation, attendance in the field, and interviews; as well as secondary data through the study of documents, laws, and regulations, and existing concepts. The results of the research showed that even though Indonesia has so far not ratified and become a party to the 1951 Refugee Convention. On the other hand, national legislation and policies that support the implementation of the non-refoulement principle are needed, because the Indonesian State is factually faced with a large number of Foreign refugees entering Indonesia's sovereign territory have shown an increase. Policy implementation and application of the principle of non-refoulment in the context of protecting foreign refugees in Indonesia has become a serious concern of the government of the Republic of Indonesia, including the government of Semarang City.