July 27, 2023
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Doctors of the World / Médecins du Monde asks for equal reception according to human rights standards for all asylum seekers and refugees
In the light of the ongoing movement of refugees fleeing from the war in Ukraine, Doctors of the World / Médecins du Monde reiterates its call to all governments to receive without discrimination and according to international standards all asylum seekers and refugees regardless of their provenance.
Fighting for all human rights – and especially the universal right for health – Doctors of the World strongly supports the ongoing initiatives to openly receive those fleeing from Ukraine. We welcome the mobilization of resources of both public and private actors and the legal changes to improve access to fundamental services and rights – such as the health care system, the permission of residence, freedom of movement, the right to work and to education. The realization of these fundamental human rights is essential for the health and well-being of those fleeing from Ukraine.
This holds true for all asylum seekers and refugees. However, many refugees from other countries as well as third state nationals or stateless people from Ukraine often do not enjoy the same access to fundamental rights and services. Now, it is time for governments to show that they do not distinguish between human beings in need according to their origin, gender, religion, or the color of their skin. No hierarchy must be put between people seeking protection. The right not to be discriminated against is enshrined in several international human rights treaties and the 1951 Refugee Convention specifically prohibits discrimination between refugees based on race, religion, or country of origin.
We thus call on our governments to ensure non-discriminatory access to fundamental services for all refugees. Let’s make collective and quick support and integration the rule and not the exception.