Confronting fascism, United Nations has asked European countries to work towards a compassionate and humane solution to the problem of refugees and migrants.
“In these times of growing division and xenophobia, I encourage the people of this great continent to be true to the values of freedom, compassion and generosity, respecting human rights, showing solidarity with those who suffer and helping humanity to move towards a better future,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said during a visit to Paris.
The UN Refugee agency says an unprecedented 65 million people displaced by wars and persecution are seeking refugee, with millions fleeing the Middle Eastern conflicts to European countries. The rise of ISIS in Syria and Iraq – due in part to lack of international leadership – and terror attacks in Paris and Brussels have complicated Western attitude to immigrants.
Some far right political leaders have reacted to the influx of refugees with hate speech and politics of fear and Ban made a point to address the question of excessive and authoritarian nationalism rooted in xenophobia.
“The challenges we face do not stop at national borders. It is clear that when we work together, we are stronger,” Ban said a joint press conference with French President François Hollande.
The UN chief visited the Greek island of Lesbos last week, where he met refugees from Syria, Iraq and elsewhere.
“These refugees have made long and tiring journeys. What they want is what we all want: to live in security, their children in school, find jobs, have the opportunity to contribute to the progress of humanity,” Ban said.
Turning to the vote in the United Kingdom to leave the European Union, the Secretary-General said he is confident that talks between the two parties will take place in a “positive and pragmatic atmosphere.”
For its part, the UN will continue to work with the United Kingdom and the European Union, “both important partners,” he reiterated.
While in Paris, the Secretary-General also received an honourary doctorate from the University of the Sorbonne.
At a ceremony, Ban said he was deeply concerned by the sharp rise in xenophobia in Europe.
“We hear the echo of the rhetoric abject which plunged the continent into war in the twentieth century. Anti-Semitism has returned, as has hatred against Muslims and discrimination against foreigners,” the world’s top diplomat said.
“Europe is firmly committed to human rights and France, in particular, has always been the standard bearer. Now, this country and this continent have to put these ideals into practice,” he added.
The UN chief also called for a new commitment to the defense of human rights, a spirit of global citizenship, and for more open societies and greater international solidarity. He also appealed to young people to become global citizens.
“Reach out to those who suffer. Report injustice. Commit for our world. When you work for a better world, you develop at the same time a real sense of purpose,” the Secretary-General said.
