Ukraine war: IFRC accuses European countries of 'double standards' on refugee crisis

As war rages on unabated in Ukraine, with civilians of war-ravaged nation fleeing to neighbouring countries in a bid to escape hostilities, he of world's biggest humanitarian network, International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), claimed that instantaneous acceptance of Ukrainians fleeing Russian military aggression underscores Europe's "double standard" for refugees. President of IFRC, Francesco Rocca me se remarks in contrast to its rejection of those fleeing conflict in Africa, Middle East, and elsewhere. According to Associated Press report, Rocca accused European nations of treating refugees with "double standards."

Rocca asserted that he believes "re is no difference" between someone leaving  Donbas area of eastern Ukraine and someone escaping Nigeria's Boko Haram terrorist group. He furr noted, “Those who are fleeing violence, those who are seeking protection, should be treated equally.” 

While speaking at a press conference, IFRC president noted that helping individuals fleeing violence and turmoil is a "moral imperative," ding that " political, public and humanitarian response to Ukraine crisis has shown what is possible when humanity and dignity come first when re is global solidarity and will to assist and protect most vulnerable,” re a press release from organisation. 

Furrmore, Rocca remarked that y have anticipated that Ukrainian conflict would be a 'watershed moment' in European migration policy. However, he believes that would not be case. He highlighted that European Union's 27 members still continue to take different attitudes toward migration at ir eastern border with Ukraine and ir sourn border with Mediterranean, Associated Press reported.  

refugee crisis in Europe

According to United Nations Refugee Agency, over 6 million Ukrainians have left embattled Ukraine since onset of invasion on February 24, with over 3.3 million heed to Poland, 605,000 to Hungary, 463,000 to Moldova, and 421,000 to Slovakia. On or hand, migrants, refugees, as well as asylum seekers attempting to enter Europe continue to die, face abuse, and struggle to get basic services, according to Francesco Rocca. 

It is pertinent to mention here that since 2014, almost 48,000 migrants have lost ir lives or gone missing while travelling by sea, whereas, while crossing central Mediterranean route to reach Europe, at least 19,000 people have died, he ded. Those who arrive, primarily in Italy, Greece, and Spain, are frequently placed in camps and have to wait for an extended period of time for ir asylum requests to be reviewed. 

Referring to scenario, Rocca stated, “Ethnicity and nationality should not be a deciding factor to saving a life. re is a double standard. This is evident. It is in our eyes, and we cannot deny it when it comes to seeking protection,” Associated Press reported.

(Image: AP)