AU endorses for safe travels amid the Covid-19.
The African Union completely endorses for safe and orderly migration for nationalities of different countries amid the corona pandemic. On 9th April 2020, the World Health Organization confirmed a total of 1476819 covid-19 cases across the globe. The novel virus has impacted on the most significant pillars of socio-economic development. Countries all over the world have reinstated draconian measures. Social distancing and self-isolation are the new habits as such, countries have banned social gatherings and most economic activities.
However, the African Union is aware countries have blocked their borders and restricted travels. Since most assume migration and mobility encourage the spreading of the virus. For instance, countries have banned overseas travel because they have an association with the virus. Especially since the covid-19 originated from China, Wuhan.
Increasing corona cases affects the travel industry.
The Africa CDC and World Health Organization keep monitoring reports and data on coronavirus. It is however unfortunate as reports show that coronavirus cases in Africa are worsening. The data records show new cases and deaths increasing on a daily basis. With the deteriorating conditions, the countries have increased restrictions on mobility and migration. This has impacted strongly on the travel industry.
African Union commends African governments for the utmost patriotism.
The African Union commends African state leaders for reinstating restrictions to curb coronavirus. For instancing implementing measures such as declaring a state of emergency to invoke all forms of movement. The African Union is however worried that the restrictions implemented may not favor vulnerable populations of refugees, migrants, and IDPs. Because such groups of people were already in the countries prior to the lockdowns or state of emergency.
African Union calls governments to adhere to international humanitarian law amid lockdown.
Meanwhile, African governments are deporting their nationalities who are stuck abroad. A rather patriotic gesture. It is however quite challenging for the African Union to intervene for the abused migrants especially since some jurisdictions have reinstated lockdown measures to curb coronavirus. As such the African Union expects the governments to adhere to the international humanitarian law amid lockdown.
In accordance with international law, AU appeals that governments that have imposed lockdowns should treat the migrants well.
African Union calls for absolute cooperation during repatriation.
AU condemns unilateral mass deportation. Because it endangers migrants by increasing the chances of contracting the virus. Countries of origin wish to receive their nationalities in good condition and as such, they need ample time to make the exercise a success.
AU urges countries to cooperate amongst themselves to make deportation easy. Coronavirus is a global pandemic that requires national solidarity. Especially since such times call for unity. The rights of refugees, migrants and IDPs also need protection during such extraordinary times. It is the responsibility of governments to respect these rights and provide suitable sustainable environments for migrants. To prevent further catastrophe, it is just wise to show love especially with coronavirus taking a toll across the globe.
More:
