Displaced population: Afridi urges refugee hosting countries to adopt solution-oriented approach

ISLAMABAD: Minister for SAFRON & Narcotics Control Shehryar Khan Afridi urged the countries hosting refugees to adopt solution-oriented approach to mitigate the sufferings of refugees and evolve joint strategy to attract attention of those prosperous countries who were not fulfilling their commitments made under UN Charter.

He was addressing a conference held on Thursday to commemorate the World Refugee Day 2019.

The Minister said it was a pity that 85 percent of the refugees were being hosted by developing nations while the developed countries were not sharing the burden despite having signatories of the UN convention on refugees.

UNHCR hosted the event largely attended by Afghan refugees, diplomats, journalists and officials from donor organizations. The event was marked by showcasing cultural heritage of Afghan refugees and songs were played.

Before starting his speech, the minister requested the participants to observe one-minute silence for those refugees and migrants who lost their lives in their journey of displacement.

He said that the emerging and protracted situation such as that we had in Pakistan, had a direct and indirect impact on political, socio-economic, environmental and security of the host countries.

“Let me emphasize that in overall world statistics, 40 percent protracted refugee situation was in Pakistan. But Pakistan, despite not being a signatory to 1951 and the 1967 conventions and protocols of the United Nations on Refugees, had never faltered on its commitment to helping refugees,” he said.

He said despite facing financial crunch situation, Pakistan had accommodated all the phases of influx of refugees that had been come regularly since 1980.

Shehryar Khan Afridi said: "This had been our cornerstone to accommodate all and sundry that are in need and who seek help. Over the period of 40 years, we had developed good practices that can be replicated by all actors in the ambit of humanitarianism.”

He said Pakistan despite its meager resources, had provided protection, food, shelter and other necessities with excellent camp management, and adhered to principles to highest standard of hospitality with providing all provision of necessities in health and education and livelihood.

"Let me share that Pakistan was the first country to develop biometrics identity at access of the refugees. Even five-year-old child had biometrics and full identity under POR arrangement. I had a question to ask to all my friends and global partners.

Was the burden, though we not call it a burden, was only the responsibility of the host country alone? Why the host country had to borne all the burden alone. Is the burden not to be shared by all other partners? Why those who claim of being champions of humanity were not to contribute and set an example for others to follow? Why the countries embroiled in their financial hardships had to strive an extra yard at the expense of its own population? Why the countries that host the protracted refugees’ issues are subject to further challenges?” remarked the Minister.

Shehryar Afridi said it was high time that responsibility and burden sharing was realized and acted upon in the best interest of humanity and adherence to the universal principles of sacrifices and protocols of international norms.

"We need straight and committed answers from those who were in the position to contribute and contribute generously,” he argued.

The Minister said Afghans value their national pride and would always resist against any aggressor.

He said: "Prime Minister Imran Khan and his team would give respect to Afghan refugees and would honor their traditions and culture. We would restore your pride and would help you get education, health and other facilities. What we need in return was respect for Pakistan, its people, its forces and its flag.

He said it was a pity that only developing countries were catering to the 85 percent of refugee hosting across the globe while Pakistan amidst its financial crisis situation was hosting Afghan refugees for the past 40 years.

"Everyone had to contribute if we want global peace. In today's world, governments were raising walls to stop immigrants. Sixty eight percent refugees were living out of camps and were integrated into mainstream society. It was our responsibility to respects and cater to the needs of the refugees,” he added.