NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS

 

ITALY

A national survey conducted by Censis, an Italian research centre for social investments, has shown that more than 80% of Italian citizens are in favour of access to health care for undocumented migrants.

Source: PICUM newsletter, April 2010, and Adnkronos.

 

 

NETHERLANDS

 

Individual assessment is necessary before returning separated children

In a recent position paper, ECPAT-NL and UNICEF-NL condemn the systematic return of separated children who don’t qualify for asylum to reception houses in the country of origin. This policy is led by the Netherlands and followed by other Member States such as Norway, Denmark, the UK and Sweden. However, ECPAT-NL and UNICEF-NL underline the necessity of proving on the basis of an individual assessment whether or not the child’s well-being can be guaranteed if s/he is sent back: “it is necessary to make an individual assessment to decide whether a durable solution is to return to the country of origin or integration in the country of residence.” In addition, “a careful assessment must be made when a child is reunited with family members.” It must be ensured that these family members can provide “appropriate long-term care in the best interest of the child.” ECPAT-NL and UNICEF-NL recall that the best interest of the child must be the most important determining criteria in deciding whether s/he should be returned to his/her country of origin.

Source: Defence for Children International, ECPAT-NL and UNICEF-NL, ‘Position paper on the return of separated children: to reception houses in countries of origin’

USA

 

Patient Protection and Affordability Act

The U.S. Congress passed and the President signed into law legislation that will bring a huge change to the American health care system. Despite the bill’s investment and focus on preventative health care and wellness and national recognition of health disparities and cultural and linguistic competence, the status quo in obtaining affordable health insurance will only change for some immigrants. Others will continue to be left out: the bill contains a restriction that prevents undocumented immigrants from buying health insurance with their own money. Because they are not allowed to buy insurance, undocumented immigrants are explicitly exempted from the insurance requirement. Unfortunately, this will not prevent undocumented immigrants from falling ill and needing health care. Thus the health care reform bill continues to allow millions in our society to remain uninsured and forced to forgo or delay care, the very thing health care reform is trying to remedy.

Sources: PICUM newsletter, April 2010, New America Media and The Guardian

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