Marja Pentikäinen

© Photographer Pertti Nisonen

To learn more about the issue of undocumented migrants in the context of Finland, as well as across the EU, we spoke to Ms. Marja Pentikäinen, Director of Diaconia and Social Responsibility at the Helsinki Deaconess Institute in Finland.

.

How do you see the current asylum procedure in Finland and in Europe?

In Finland, as in the rest of the EU, there is a need for responsible decision-making on asylum procedures. Taking into account current practices, I think we have reached an untenable situation concerning human rights and human dignity.

Speaking as a former civil servant with a background in immigration policy, it is hard for me not to question what kind of actions our ‘’civilized societies’’ have put into practice over the last few years. When it comes to policy design, are we making sure that human rights, human dignity and sustainable policy are respected and taken into account? Due to current legislation in Finland, a growing number of people have been forced to live on the margins of society. These individuals then run the risk of becoming ‘invisible’ citizens, with no rights or social protection. Despite the dire circumstances, they would rather choose to endure the precarity they face in Europe than go back to Iraq or Afghanistan. It goes without saying that the fear and risk of being killed is bigger than any distress faced in Europe.

.

Who are these people and why do they end up being ‘’invisible’’?

These people could be referred to as ‘’illegal migrants’’, ‘’undocumented migrants’’ or ‘’vulnerable migrants.’’ In Finland for example, failed asylum seekers can spend up to 30 days in a migrant reception centre on the national immigration service. After this period, they must leave the reception centre and return to their countries of origin or departure. This could be understandable if the given countries were safe. However, if the countries of origin are experiencing war and persecution, this option is unreasonable. The reality is that these people will become even more vulnerable. They might end up going into hiding so they won’t be forcibly deported against their will under the pretence of being voluntarily expatriated.

Many countries have begun a race to the bottom on immigrant policy. By making conditions unfavourable, some European countries try to lessen the pull factors that would attract migrants.

 

What do our societies need to be more hospitable?

In the light of current circumstances, an increased awareness of these people’s conditions, and the overall situation is needed. We definitely need more courage in solving these challenges. If temporary residence permits on humanitarian grounds can’t be provided, temporary study and work based residence permits should be granted. I know this would require resources and counselling but we should be brave enough to defend inalienable human rights and dignity, because everyone has the right to be respected as a human being.

Undocumented migrants and their families are in a difficult situation, and they are not able to solve their problems on their own. It is too short-sighted to make life-changing decisions on their behalf, and to deport them involuntarily into hopeless and dangerous living situations.

.

We thank Ms Pentikäinen for taking the time to respond to our questions for this interview, and very much welcomed her input on this topic.

Please do not hesitate to contact our Communications and Membership Officer  Antonio at antonio.lamantia@eurodiaconia.org if you have any further questions.