The Women Suing Qatar & Your Rights In An Airport

Just over one year ago, at least 13 Australian women and hundreds of others were subjected to invasive gynaecological examinations without warning or explanation while they were transiting on flights through Doha Airport.

It caused international outrage at the time, but what has happened since to ensure that those responsible for this gross violation of their rights are held to account, and that this never happens to anyone else ever again?

The Quicky speaks to one of the women involved, a lawyer for a group suing the Qatari authorities, and an International Law expert to find out who is to blame for what happened, and how to make sure it never happens to you.

A note on this podcast:

While preparing this episode, we reached out to the Australian Federal Government for comment. We received a response from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade noting that they were unable to facilitate our interview request.

We also contacted the Government of Qatar via their Embassy in Canberra for comment, but no response was received.

The following is a statement from the office of the Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne that was sent to one of our colleagues:

Minister Payne and DFAT registered the Australian Government’s serious concerns about this incident to Qatari Government authorities in both Canberra and in Qatar. The Australian Government sought an immediate investigation into the incident by Qatar authorities, and that action be taken against those responsible. The Australian Government also sought assurances that concrete steps be taken to ensure this cannot happen again.

The Australian Government acknowledges the steps the Government of Qatar took in this matter, including a comprehensive investigation, the prosecution and conviction of those responsible, and the implementation of revised airport security processes to ensure this cannot happen again.

CREDITS 

Host: Claire Murphy

With thanks to: 

Ana* - One of the women subjected to an inappropriate physical examination at Doha Airport in October 2020 who is suing Qatari authorities along with six other women who continue to suffer distress and ill effects and trauma one year on

Daisy von Schoenberg - Senior Associate at Marque Lawyers who has a particular interest in media law and human rights who is part of the team working on Ana's* case

Professor Donald Rothwell FAAL - One of Australia’s leading experts in International Law based at the Australian National University in Canberra

*Name has been changed for privacy.

Producer: Claire Murphy

Executive Producer: Siobhán Moran-McFarlane

Audio Producer: Ian Camilleri

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