UN urges Iceland to address human rights concerns over solitary confinement and immigration laws

The United Nations Human Rights Committee has urged Iceland to address human rights issues regarding the use of solitary confinement, immigration laws, and police surveillance.

Concerns have been raised about recent changes to immigration laws that reportedly increase the difficulties faced by individuals whose applications for international protection have been denied. The committee noted that the restriction of basic services to just thirty days following the final decision exacerbates the challenges for those awaiting deportation.

Additionally, the enforcement of the non-refoulement principle, which prohibits returning individuals to places where they may face threats to their life or freedom, is under scrutiny. The use of solitary confinement in detention centers, particularly affecting foreign nationals, has also been condemned.

The committee has criticized recent amendments to police laws that grant law enforcement greater authority to monitor individuals who have not committed any crime. It emphasized the need for judicial oversight over police actions and the establishment of rigorous monitoring procedures to prevent potential abuses.

These observations come within a broader context, as the committee has recently published findings from evaluations conducted in several other countries, including Ecuador, France, Greece, Pakistan, and Turkey. Iceland’s Amnesty International chapter has highlighted the committee’s endorsement of three out of four key points they raised, focusing on these pressing human rights concerns that need redressal in the country.