A man hugs her daughter after arriving on the Greek island of Lesbos along with other migrants and refugees, on November 17, 2015. PHOTO: AFP
GENEVA: The UN refugee agency urged European countries on Tuesday not to react to Friday's attacks in Paris by rejecting or blaming refugees, the vast majority of whom were fleeing persecution or conflict.
Refugees in Germany fear backlash
"We are concerned about reactions by some states to end the programs being put in place, backtracking from commitments made to manage the refugee crisis (i.e. relocation), or proposing the erection of more barriers," UNHCR's chief spokeswoman Melissa Fleming said.
Syrian passport at Paris attack scene belonged to asylum seeker: Greek minister
"We are deeply disturbed by language that demonises refugees as a group. This is dangerous as it will contribute to xenophobia and fear."
German police chief plays down security threat from refugees
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau faced increasing calls Monday to delay bringing in 25,000 Syrian refugees by year’s end due to security concerns, following attacks in Paris.
While an online petition against fast-tracking Syrian asylum seekers’ bids to relocate to Canada gained steam, the premier of Saskatchewan province, Brad Wall, in an open letter urged the prime minister to “suspend” the move.
COMMENTS (2)
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ