The Secretary General of the United Nations Organization (UN), António Guterres, commemorated World Refugee Day on Tuesday calling for more “support and solidarity” for the men, women and children who stop these difficult journeys, instead of ” close borders and block.”
In a video message posted on various United Nations platforms, Guterres recalled his decade of service as United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, when he witnessed firsthand the resilience and contributions of refugees “in all spheres of life”.
“Her perseverance in the face of adversity inspires me every day. Refugees represent the best of the human spirit. They need and deserve support and solidarity, not closed borders and blockades, ”she defended.
The perseverance of refugees in the face of adversity inspires me every day.
They need and deserve support and solidarity, not closed borders and setbacks.
This #WorldRefugeeDayI call on the world to match your courage with opportunity. pic.twitter.com/NJfOpD53js
– Antonio Guterres (@antonioguterres) June 20, 2023
On World Refugee Day, the former Portuguese Prime Minister remembered the more than one hundred million people who live in countries affected by conflict, persecution, hunger and climate chaos and who were forced to flee their homes.
“These are not just numbers on paper. They are women, children and men making the journey difficult, often facing violence, exploitation, discrimination and abuse. This Day reminds us of our duty to protect and support refugees, and our obligation to create new forms of support, including solutions to resettle refugees and help them rebuild their lives with dignity,” he said.
The UN leader called for greater international support for refugee-receiving countries, as provided for in the Global Compact for Refugees, and increased access to quality education, decent work, health care, housing and social protection. .
“We need a much stronger political will to achieve peace and for refugees to be able to return to their homes safely,” he said.
“This year’s theme is ‘Hope Away From Home’. I ask the world to harness the hope that refugees carry in their hearts. Let us match their courage with the opportunities they need, every step of the way,” he concluded.
Source: TSF
