Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Bangalore (Fides Service) - Migration, globalisation, human rights, security and poverty were the main issues discussed at a recent seminar in Bangalore organised by the Indian Social Institute and local branch of the Jesuit Refugee Service. Intellectuals, religious leaders, academics and experts reflected on forced migration in the region and its social, political and religious implications. A phenomenon they said which is a challenge to society and to the Church.
“For centuries the region of southern Asia was the scene of migration. Colonial administration divided communities artificially. The creation of countries like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh led to a vast movement of peoples. Wars and conflicts in the region increased the phenomenon of migration and refugees”, said Paul Newman of Jesuit Refugee Service.
“National economic policies - he said - led to a growing flow of homeless people who today live in sub-human conditions, also because of government programmes undertaken in the name of modernisation and industrialisation, pushing vulnerable people to the margins of society. Territory disputes ignored the security of the people, tribals in particular and minority ethnic groups were the most affected”.
The aim of seminar - participants said - was to promote awareness of this phenomenon which today affects millions of people in southern Asia. “The must be a different approach of social policies, more respect for local communities and more awareness in civil society”, says the appeal signed by the participants at the end of the meeting. (Agenzia Fides 16/03/2006 Righe: 26 Parole: 266)
