We must address root causes of the refugee crisis

~ Lutheran World Federation General Secretary Rev. Dr Martin Junge

GENEVA, 19 January 2016 (LWI) – The Lutheran World Federation (LWF) General Secretary Rev. Dr Martin Junge has emphasized the need to strengthen collaboration between faith-based organizations (FBOs) and other bodies in protecting refugees and addressing the root causes of displacement and forced migration.

Speaking to representatives of governments, United Nations agencies, church and other faith groups and civil society organizations at Geneva’s Ecumenical Center, Junge said establishing a binding law for asylum in Europe “won’t address the root-causes of migration.” The increasing asymmetries of larger issues including economic, climate and gender injustices compel people to move because “they want to live,” he stressed at the 18-19 January conference.

The World Council of Churches (WCC) organized the event in cooperation with the UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF; its Population Fund, UNFPA; and the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The aim is to secure commitments to strengthen coordinated responses to the refugee crisis in Europe, including the implementation of migration and integration policies, and the establishment of adequate mechanisms for orderly and safe refugee movements across the continent.

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