Migrant and Refugee Crisis

“We cannot turn our backs on those who are fleeing persecution, violence, and war. We must extend a helping hand and offer them protection.” – Malala Yousafzai

Nahel M. has been much in the news lately. This 17-year-old boy of Moroccan African descent was shot dead by the French police. His only crime was not following the traffic rules. While a violation of the law, one must question whether it warrants a loss of life. In an instant, Nahel went from being an accused individual to a victim, highlighting the deep-rooted societal prejudices against migrants. The rise of the far-right wing in European politics has been overwhelming. The mainstay of their politics is anti-immigrant. A drastic change in demography has shaken them up. A record number of 10 million people migrated because of forced displacement. Mr. Guterres called for more solutions to resettle the refugees. The Afghanistan crisis and the ongoing Ukraine war have worsened the situation. After the pandemic, every nation is reluctant to accept migrants due to the burden they impose on available resources. The United Nations designated June 20th as the ‘Day of Refugees and Migrants’ to unite countries and organizations to find a resolution to the ongoing refugee crisis. It promotes the idea of fair treatment for refugees. While recognizing a country’s priority to prioritize its citizens, it emphasizes our social responsibility towards those in need, particularly within the context of a nation’s needs. Migration has been a longstanding phenomenon that went unnoticed until it fulfilled certain objectives. Refugees worldwide have often been regarded as a source of an inexpensive workforce. However, shifts in job market dynamics have raised concerns for nations. Consequently, local populations have started opposing these individuals, leading to law and order challenges. To address this issue, it is crucial to examine the root cause that led to this situation and determine the necessary steps to correct it. The global economy is going through a very dark phase. Rich countries are getting richer and poor countries are getting poorer. Prof. Yukio Kamino says that ecologically devastating desertification and drought have forced people to change places. The idea of a better life and a better future for their kids forces them to take this risky and tedious journey. According to him, the pervasive male-led conflict in various parts of the world like Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine has only aggravated the situation. He states that males restrict females from owning lands and turn them into lifeless soil. To resolve this crisis, a shift in perspective is necessary. Women must take a leading role in addressing the situation at hand. By actively involving themselves, they can strive to find solutions to a crisis that disproportionately impacts them. With 90% of the refugees being female or male children, women can utilize their position to effect change in a society already plagued by conflicts. The current situation is concerning. According to the professor, The Supreme has sent a distinct message that the preservation of both males and females must support socio-ecological systems led by women. Females possess a greater awareness of conflict resolution and possess the ability to take into account various factors. Food for thought. This statement gives us something to reflect upon.

–Nidhi Raj is an independent writing professional, storyteller, and mother with a keen interest in women’s issues and International Relations.