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Mr. Chairman,
Pakistan appreciates the UN High Commissioner for Refugees for his comprehensive reports. We believe these reports provide useful update on the current refugee situation and an over view of the work of the organization.
Mr. Chairman,
The international community is currently witnessing human displacement on an unprecedented scale. A pervasive sense of despondency and lack of prospects, induced by protracted conflict and insecurity, lies at the core of this phenomenon. Wars, human rights abuses and protracted refugee situations have become endemic. Men, women, children and the elderly are on the move in search of safety, dignity and hope of a better future.
The global refugee crisis has become a catastrophe, with hordes of refugees fleeing war and persecution from countries like Afghanistan, Syria, South Sudan, Myanmar and Iraq. According to the High Commissioner’s report some 65.6 million worldwide have now been displaced as a result of persecution, conflict or other situations of violence.
Most refugees fleeing conflict do not have the resources to move beyond neighbouring areas, others take perilous journeys across land and sea in search of a better life. Regrettably their journeys at times end in unwelcoming conditions and far too often in death and despair.
Mr. Chairman,
The adoption of New York Declaration last year by the 193 United Nations Member States at the Summit for Refugees and Migrants, is a strong reaffirmation by the international community to protect those who are forced to flee, and support the countries and communities that shelter them.
Just words, however, are hardly enough. A lot more needs to be done. Addressing the global refugee crisis is a shared international responsibility that the international community cannot and should not shy away from.
Mr. Chairman,
Pakistan, on its part, has demonstrated unparalleled generosity and hospitality by hosting millions of Afghan refugees for almost four decades. This is the largest protracted refugee situation since the Second World War.
We continue to provide unhindered access to education, healthcare and livelihood opportunities to our Afghan brothers and sisters.
In July 2013, the Government of Pakistan adopted a new National Policy on Afghan Refugees, in synergy with the Solutions Strategy for Afghan Refugees (SSAR), which focuses on voluntary repatriation in safety and dignity and calls for the sustainable reintegration of Afghan refugees inside Afghanistan, and assistance to refugee host communities.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan himself categorically assured that Afghan refugees will not be repatriated forcibly. Their return will be voluntary and with dignity. We are evolving a Plan of Action for smooth repatriation and working closely with the Government of Afghanistan and UNHCR.
Recognition for this immense public good and appropriate support from the international community is lacking.
Mr. Chairman,
We have experienced that contributions of host countries are largely taken for granted. While their national resources are stretched to cater for increasing protection needs of refugees, pledges of international solidarity often remain just that.
Our common endeavour to ensure that no one is left behind, calls for proactive action, equal burden sharing, long term durable solutions and to think beyond our national priorities and strengthen each other in catering to the humanitarian needs.
Mr. Chairman,
In conclusion, I would like to re-emphasize that resolution of the refugee crisis requires a comprehensive approach. One that entails resolution of conflicts and long term political settlements to address the root causes of displacements.
I thank you.