November 30, 2017

108th Session of the Council of the International Organization for Migration

While it is important to respect the legitimate interests of States, Pope Francis encourages that migration be regarded with confidence, as an opportunity to build peace and not as a threat, “within the limits allowed by a correct understanding of the common good”. He urges that all those fleeing from conflict, hunger, discrimination, persecution, extreme poverty, natural disasters and environmental degradation be received and protected. In this regard, Pope Francis appeals to the political community, civil society, and religious institutions to join forces in offering a shared response to the complexities of the modern migration phenomenon. This is summarized in a document that the Holy See has submitted as an official contribution to the processes leading to the two Global Compacts with four verbs: to welcome, to protect, to promote and to integrate.
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