Amnesty International Australia condemns Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s baseless and inflammatory claims that Palestinians have been “fast-tracked” to Australian citizenship as reckless mis and disinformation designed to fan the flames of racist division and hate.
Dutton’s recent inflammatory comments stated that the Labor Government is prioritising citizenship for Palestinian refugees to secure their votes in the upcoming Federal Election. Unequivocally untrue, not a single Palestinian or family have been granted citizenship. Palestinians continue to only be offered tourist visas to flee Gaza which are inadequate. Some have been offered temporary visas, but none have been offered citizenship. Such false comments entrench racial division and fuel hatred targeted towards refugees, migrants and people seeking safety.
Mohamed Duar, Amnesty International Australia’s Occupied Palestinian Territory Spokesperson, says:
“Dutton’s dangerous rhetoric demonises Palestinians fleeing genocide and persecution in search of safety. In a time of rising Islamophobic violence, politicians must act responsibly, not incite further racism, hate and division.
“These are everyday women, men and children who have endured war crime after war crime, horror after horror. Homes, schools, shelters, hospitals and places of worship have all been destroyed. Palestinians deserve dignity, safety and welcoming rather than be used as political footballs.
“The Federal Election must not be fought on Islamophobia, racism or fearmongering. Australians should take pride in offering safety to Palestinian families escaping Israel’s genocide in Gaza, not fall for politically motivated scapegoating.
“Spreading misinformation about the citizenship process fuels racism and hate. With increasing incidents of Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian racism around Australia, politicians should be acting to protect vulnerable communities, fulfil their international obligations and provide support for those seeking safety. Failing to do so risks inciting further violence.
“Human rights must remain at the heart of Federal Election matters, and no politician, Dutton or otherwise, should exploit such communities for political gain.
“Human rights must remain at the heart of Federal Election matters, and no politician, Dutton or otherwise, should exploit such communities for political gain.”
Mohamed Duar, Amnesty International Australia’s Occupied Palestinian Territory Spokesperson
“Australians deserve leaders who stand for truth, justice, and human rights—not those who weaponise fear and division for votes.”
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