October 26, 2010. Benedict XVI sent a message for the World Day of the Immigrant and Refugees 2011 which will take place on January 16. The Pope noted that states have the right to "regulate migratory flows" and "defend their borders." But at the same time asked that governments welcome all people and ensure respect for human dignity.
The Pope has called his message “A single human family.” In the message he says that immigrants have a “duty to integrate into the host country, respecting the laws and national identity.”
Arch. Antonio Maria Veglió
President, Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People
“We are all children of God, every one of us has inalienable rights and every one of us as a human being must be respected. This is the foundation of how we should be inspired, and this is how the Church should inspire nations.”
The Pope devotes part of his message to the refugees and forced migrants. He cautioned that if authorities of the host country are concerned about security and social cohesion, then they should respect immigrants rights and only then will a stable and harmonious coexistence be achieved.
According to the Pope authorities should also help displaced persons to find a place where they can live in peace. They deserve this help because they often have to flee their own countries for political or religious reasons.
In his message addressed to governments, citizens and immigrants alike, he calls for everyone to help in achieving integration of immigrants in an increasingly globalized world.
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