Generosity to refugees is the answer, not fear

Generosity is the answer, not fear. This is the message of Angelina Jolie, special UN envoy, to the international community as she urged governments from around the world to respond to Europe’s worst refugee crisis since the World War II.

In a speech in London earlier this week, Jolie opined that everybody has a responsibility to alleviate the sufferings of those fleeing their home countries and should not allow politics of fear to get in the way.

Currently, the number of refugees arising from conflicts in various regions, including in Syria, is estimated at 60 million. With this, Jolie said that she understands why many people are angry with the inaction of various institutions that should be dealing with the refugee issues.

“It has created the risk of a race to the bottom, with countries competing to be the toughest in the hope of protecting themselves whatever the cost or challenge to their neighbors, and despite their international responsibilities,” Jolie said.

Jolie stressed that strength lies in being unafraid, referring to those who are afraid to take in refugees for reasons rooted in fear. She reiterated her call for generosity towards refugees, adding that every human being has an equal right to stand in dignity.

[Christian Post]

This entry was posted in Humanitarian Aid, International Cooperation by Grant Montgomery.