This Monday, the President of the Republic called for respect for the rights of all migrants, without discrimination, regardless of whether their movement was forced, voluntary or officially authorized, saying that human rights are at stake.
“Migrant rights are human rights,” wrote Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa in a message published on the official website of the President of the Republic on the occasion of International Migrants Day.
In this note, the head of state states that there are “more than 280 million migrants in the world, citizens moving in search of opportunities for a better life,” and asserts that “the potential of migration as a driver of economic and social development is undeniable.”
The President of the Republic points to Portugal as “an example of this” on a global level, “with millions of fellow emigrants reflected throughout the world and welcoming thousands of immigrants to our physical territory.”
“However, the thinking that today offers goes beyond safe and orderly migration. On this day, the United Nations calls on us to look at the meaning and consequences of irregular migration, the result of conflict, climate change, extreme poverty, lack of freedom and decent living conditions,” he said.
Marcelo Rebelo de Souza adds that “in 2023, globally, some of these conditions have worsened, namely due to the continuation of wars and the intensification of other conflicts,” noting that “new structures aimed at hospitality are developing within the country.” .
“Therefore, it is important for the President of the Republic to emphasize that the rights of migrants are human rights. They must be respected without discrimination, regardless of whether their movement is forced, voluntary or officially authorized,” he states.
According to the head of state, “this is a more visible message on this day, but it should not be forgotten on all other days of the year.”
In December 2000, the United Nations (UN) declared 18 December as International Migration Day, based on the principles set out in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and taking into account the growing number of migrants in the world.