AKEL on International Migrants Day

 

18 December 2023, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

December 18 was designated by the UN as International Migrants Day to strengthen the implementation of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and their Families.

On the occasion of International Migrants Day, AKEL extends a warm greeting to Cypriot migrants living and working abroad and to migrants living and working in Cyprus.

Cyprus is the country of origin of thousands of migrants. Thousands of Cypriots have been forced to emigrate over the past decades in search of a better life for themselves and their families. Cyprus is also a country of origin of immigrants. Thousands of immigrants are working in Cyprus today, making their own contribution to society and the economy.

No person chooses to leave his/her homeland. Wars, conflicts, economic impoverishment, social and political oppression, natural disasters force millions of people to migrate.

The refugee and migration issue inevitably concern modern societies. Policies for refugees and migrants must be based on the respect for life and dignity, and on international and European conventions on human rights. Every modern state must implement a comprehensive immigration policy based on these principles. Cyprus must formulate such a policy that will be based on speedy, fair and effective procedures, ensuring dignified and humane conditions of residence, work and inclusion in society.

AKEL reaffirms that it will continue to fight for the labour rights and gains of all workers, for the unity and class solidarity of working people, for the stamping out of racism and nationalism, for the fight against human trafficking and for a society based on solidarity.