Conditions in the north-eastern Syrian camp where 34 Australians have been forcibly returned are deteriorating dramatically, with reports of near-nightly raids and increasingly violent beatings amid worsening uncertainty over their futures.
Australians Stranded as Camp Conditions Worsen
The 11 women and 23 Australian children were forced back to Roj camp on Monday to find their tents – formerly known as “Australia Street” – demolished and their possessions seized. Kurdish officials have reportedly refused to return their tents, scattering the group across the shrinking, unstable camp and billeting them with other families.
Notice currently no established lines of communication with the group, and their immediate future remains unclear. The group consists of the wives, widows, and children of slain or jailed Islamic State fighters, all of whom have been given Australian passports and permission to leave Roj camp.
Efforts to reach Damascus and board flights to Australia were thwarted when Syrian government officials refused them permission to cross into government-controlled territory, forcing them back to Roj. Sources on the ground report the camp is increasingly unstable and violent, and is expected to soon be transferred from Kurdish control to the Syrian government.
A fragile ceasefire exists between the Syrian government and the Kurdish forces currently in control of Roj camp, but the Kurdish forces have ceded most of their territory. A Syrian source stated, “It’s getting more dangerous, more uncertain,” adding, “Other countries are undertaking these repatriations. Australia has completely abdicated its responsibility.”
One mother shared that she has been avoiding the news, finding any updates on the fate of those stranded in Syria unbearable, stating, “It’s been almost seven years, we just want her home.” Human rights groups in Australia are urging politicians to prioritize the safety of the Australian children.
The Australian government, though, has been resolute in not assisting with the repatriation, a stance echoed by the prime minister, who stated he had “nothing but contempt” for those in the camp and that the government is providing “no support whatsoever.”
Human Rights Watch reports conditions in Roj camp have deteriorated in recent weeks, with reports of nightly raids and severe beatings. The organization has repeatedly called on Australia and other governments to repatriate their citizens who have been unlawfully detained in north-east Syria for almost seven years.
The US funds security operations in north-east Syria and wants the camp closed, withdrawing funding and urging allies to repatriate their citizens. US Central Command has stated that the camps are “incubators for radicalisation.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current situation for the Australians in Roj camp?
The 34 Australians – 11 women and 23 children – are currently stranded in Roj camp after being forced back from Damascus by Syrian government officials. Their tents have been demolished, and they have been billeted with other families in the unstable camp.
What is the Australian government’s position on repatriation?
The Australian government has stated it is not assisting with the repatriation of the group and the prime minister has expressed contempt for those in the camp, offering no support.
What are the concerns regarding the future of Roj camp?
Roj camp is expected to be transferred from Kurdish control to the Syrian government soon, and conditions are reportedly deteriorating with increased violence. There are also fears related to a fragile ceasefire between the Syrian government and Kurdish forces.
Given the deteriorating conditions and the uncertain political landscape, what will be the long-term impact on the safety and well-being of the Australian citizens remaining in Roj camp?
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