Switzerland has a reputation as a stable, prosperous country where citizens make a significant contribution to the running of the whole society. That may be one reason it is a popular destination for refugees and migrants, although local legislation is far from welcoming. Under Swiss law, anyone without a permanent residency permit can be arrested at any time, held for two years and then be expelled and sent back to their country of origin on so-called “special flights.” Award-winning director Fernand Melgar visited a detention centre near Geneva to record, without commentary or explanation, what goes on behind its walls surrounded by high fences. Emotional testimonies of detainees who committed no crime are intertwined with scenes of officials trying to make them “voluntarily” leave the country. Many of those whose cases are being heard have lived in Switzerland for many years, started a family there or paid tax and social insurance, but none of that helps.

Guests will include Claude Muret, the editor and screenwriter of the film, and Pierre Arnaud Perrouty, a human rights lawyer.

This event is being held in cooperation with Festival des Libertés.

Film trailer.

This screening is part of the One World in Brussels 2012 film festival.