June 20th marks World Refugee Day. Heinz Bierbaum, President of the Party of the European Left comments:

“We will not be able to alleviate the refugee crisis or the refugees' struggle for survival unless we fight every day to protect their rights, safety, and dignity.

In the context of the healthcare crisis it is critical to highlight the inhumane conditions that refugees face in detention camps, where they lack access to sanitary facilities, medical care, and personal space. We are extremely worried about the situation at Europe's borders, particularly in Greece and in camps such as Moria, where people are being detained in overcrowded facilities. While we try to find ways to adapt in a 1.5-meter society, we forget about the thousands of people who do not even have access to soap and running water.  

Although this day consists of an occasion for international statements in commemoration of more than 80 million forcibly displaced and over 26 million refugees globally, it neglects their inclusion. For the EL, this day also marks an opportunity to shed light on all those who have died trying to reach Fortress Europe and crossing the Mediterranean. 

Instead of spending resources on Frontex and building walls at the borders, the European Left advocates an active European policy based on solidarity among member states. We want peace policies that address the root causes of forced migration, such as poverty, war, and climate change. We also propose asylum seeker and refugee reception policies that respect human rights and the right to mobility and freedom of movement. The EL supports the international convention system that protects human rights against government attacks, such as the UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and the European Convention on Human Rights. We demand that the Dublin Regulations be repealed and that legal and secure humanitarian corridors be established.

United in solidarity, we stand by all refugees seeking asylum at Europe's borders.”