Australia is attempting to show asylum seekers that their best bet is to actually go to Cambodia.
In a deal struck last year, Australia offered Cambodia $31 million to take in refugees, The Associated Press reports. There are 700 migrants detained on the Pacific Island nation of Nauru, and this week, they were shown a video message from Australian Immigration Minister Peter Dutton, who said Cambodia is a "fast-paced and vibrant country with a stable economy and varied employment opportunities ... a diverse nation with a blend of many nationalities, cultures, and religions. An opportunity for a new life is now before you. While it's not Australia, Cambodia offers you safety, security, and opportunity." They also received a fact sheet saying they would receive free health insurance and cash, and would enjoy "all the freedoms of a democratic society, including freedom of religion and freedom of speech."
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