The President of the Republic, Sergio Mattarella, issued the following statement for World Refugee Day:
«Every year, millions of people are forced to leave their homelands, fleeing from armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, persecutions and violations of the most fundamental human rights.
This is a disquieting reality, a trend that emerges cyclically, almost as if it were an unescapable fate resulting from the tragic developments in relations between States and peoples.
History – the history of Europe and of the international organisations set up in the aftermath of World War II – proves that such drifts are not irreversible: we can refute them with the logic of reason and the power of peace.
Our Republican system and our Constitution acknowledge the universal nature of human rights and – with specific reference to people persecuted because of their opinions – the right to be granted asylum, while also encompassing matters such as rescue operations, a responsible reception and protection of refugees and displaced persons.
On this World Refugee Day I wish to express solidarity and support to the women and men – many of whom are minors – who are experiencing this distressing situation of fragility and vulnerability, sometimes exploited by ruthless criminal organisations that blatantly trample on human dignity.
The willpower of States, as well as their ability to cooperate with one another and with the relevant international institutions, is a key factor for countering the underlying causes of these phenomena and implementing effective solutions.
The Italian Republic highlights the remarkable relevance of World Refugee Day and once again supports the call of those who urge all members of the international community to refrain from adopting an irresponsible conduct, to promote the protection of every single human being and to contribute to the fulfilment of the universal ideal of solidarity among peoples».
