[Lauchenoiria]

Kerlian News Service

International Edition

New initiative to tackle migration problem aims to decriminalise attempted border crossing
5th August 2019

A new initiative, proposed by Councillor Natalia Hart, aims to decriminalise attempting to illegally leave Kerlile, instead working to identify the reason behind illegal emigration attempts and make citizens happier in Kerlile. If passed, the Council bill will also order the release of any prisoner detained solely on a charge of attempting to illegally leave Kerlile.

In recent years, attempted emigration has increased, especially along the Conternian border, where attempted crossings have trebled in the past twelve months. In the vicinity of the Lauchenoirian border, attempts have remained steady, though successful crossings have fallen considerably as a result of increased border security in the vicinity.

At present, most adults charged with illegal crossing attempts are sentenced to around 20 years in prison, and children are taken into care. Councillor Hart, however, aims to replace prison with a programme designed to address the causes of attempts. Attempted illegal emigrants will be asked their reason for leaving, and measures will be taken to address common problems.

The Council are scheduled to debate the bill in a week’s time, after Nirmala Patel, daughter of Anita Patel, has taken her vows and become Councillor Patel in her mother’s place, under the Council Succession Act (2019), which allows for a daughter to take her mother’s place in the event of temporary incapacitation, including incarceration in a foreign country. Since Anita Patel’s extradition to Sanctaria, the Council has lacked a Patel member, however Nirmala is expected to take her vows on Thursday.

“Many individuals are choosing to try and leave Kerlile, because they are dissatisfied with their lives, which makes me incredibly sad,” says Councillor Hart. “Kerlile can be a wonderful place to live, but for too long we have allowed easily addressable issues to affect the view of some of our citizens on our society. It is important that we hear the problems that make people want to leave, and do our best to address them.”

If the bill passes, individuals attempting to cross the border will no longer receive prison sentences, but may still be required to pay a fine. Those attempting to leave may also be required to attend Kerlian culture classes, which aim to help people feel part of Kerlian society, and allow individuals to learn more about their nation. These classes are available optionally to all Kerlians, and are compulsory for immigrants and individuals charged with certain anti-social behaviour offences.