Policy Analysis of the ‘Pacific Solution / Offshore Processing ‘Component of Immigration and Asylum Seeker/ Refugee Policy of Australia

Abstract

This article describes and critically analyses the findings of the Pacific Solution/ ‘Off-shore processing’ component of immigration and Asylum Seeker and refugee policy including recent proposed changes in July 2013. This will highlight strengths and limitations of the policy, and identify implications of policy implementation. Additionally, critical issues with regards to social policy and legal framework are discussed. The psychological disturbances that confront Asylum Seekers, reported by different interest groups are highlighted. This analysis outlines the issues emerging at detention centres, its impacts on children and women Asylum Seekers and the need for Australian society including the government to understand the human voice. These issues can assist in an understanding of the current critical nationwide situation of this problem. This article will argue that, due to the implementation of a continuously changing short-term policy in tackling the problem of Asylum Seekers, a range of social, moral and legal problems have occurred and affected human life. The paper concludes with policy alternatives and proposes solutions and recommendations with regards to the policy.5The framework used in this article, critically evaluates the Pacific Solution policy and addresses social, welfare and ideological aspects. In this research, this framework was of great use to collect data relevant to the Offshore Processing ‘component of immigration and Asylum Seeker/ Refugee Policy of Australia. Additionally, it provided ways and means to identify roadmap to shift from good practices to alternate best practices.