Australian Youth Group Calls For Compassion Towards Immigrants

A Catholic youth group in Australia is appealing to local politicians to exercise compassion for immigrants and those seeking asylum. The “Australian Young Christian Students” (AYCS) association made the appeal after welcoming Pope Francis’ recent visit to the Italian island of Lampedusa with brought international attention to the plight of immigrants.

In a statement sent to Fides News Agency, the association wished to bring attention to children who they are “confined” in camps and detention, an immigration system enforced in Australia.

"Children are particularly vulnerable and have come to Australia in search of help", says the note by AYCS sent to Fides. "What remains vital to their health and well-being is that children and their families are not subjected to long periods of detention".

AYCS stated that a recent report by Human Rights Watch stated that children and their parents in countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia are victims of arbitrary arrest and severe abuse and come to Australia in the hopes of gaining a better life.

“Children who arrive in Australia, therefore, seek stability and security that all children deserve", the association stated.