Go Back To Where You Came From Reflection

1. What is your initial reaction to the show?
Initially, I didn't expect the show to go into so much depth of the asylum seeker issue or have such a big effect on the people entering the competition. Raye was the quickest to change and her stay at Wadonga (the first place) immediately showed a change in her relationship and prejudice on asylum seekers and refugees. For Raquel, the effect of the programme didn't take place until the end, when she met the relatives of those she stayed with of the start. I think it hit her how far they needed to go until they achieve relative safety. 


2. What percentage of immigrants are refugees?
Of all immigrants in Australia, 1.5% of those are refugees. 


3. Why does such a small number of people make for such a big deal both politically and in the media? 
There are many reasons why the refugee issue poses such an issue to Australian's both in politics and the media. People often frown upon them as they are considered to be involved in illegal activity and often these people don't understand the issues that they experience in their homeland and the reasons why they have left. The political issue is involved as there are many arguments for and against the refugees and what to do with them. The media then scandalizes these events and this is how it becomes an issue. 


4. Where does Australia rank among countries accepting refugees?
Australia ranks 18th among countries accepting refugees. 


5. To what extent do we have an obligation to help other people suffering in the world?
The UN Peace Treaty states somewhere that we have to accept those who declare asylum. However, there are many things that we aren't obliged to do in the case. Australia is not obliged to assist those in poverty, war and famine but chose to any way. 


6. How much extra support do refugees receive in comparison to other Australian citizens?
Refugees receive no extra support than other Australian citizens. 


7. How many Asian nations have signed the UN Refugee Convention?
There are eleven Asian nations that have signed the UN Refugee Convention. 


8. Why is it important to note that Malaysia has not signed the UN Refugee Convention? What does this mean for refugees in Malaysia?
It is important to note this as this means that Malaysian refugee's have less rights than refugees in countries that have signed the UN Refugee Convention. This also creates an interesting relationship and stance between Australia and Malaysia.