Permanent Mission of India

Geneva

29th session of the Human Rights Council

(15 June-03 July 2015)

Agenda Item3: Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on Human Rights of Migrants (15 June 2015)

Statement by India

Mr. President,

1. We thank you for convening this Enhanced Interactive Dialogue on the Human Rights of Migrants as well as theSpecial Rapporteur on migrants for his report.

2.We are deeply saddened at the recent tragedies at sea where thousands of migrants have lost their lives. We share the alarm and grave concern of this Council at the inhuman exploitation of migrants from organized criminal groups. This challenge calls for a holistic analysis and assessment along with a concerted international response through enhanced multilateral cooperation amongst countries of origin, transit and destination.

3.It is unfortunate that the crisis of migrants at sea had to reach such severe proportions. Last year, around this time, several member states, including India had expressed the need, through a Presidential Statement at our initiative, for an urgent action towards protection of human rights of migrants by addressing the root causes that drive people to undertake such life-threatening journeys.

4.We share the concerns expressed by the SR on human rights of migrants in his comprehensive and timely report. There are gross violations of human rights at all stages of the migratory process. For those migrants who are fortunate enough to survive the gruelling and cruel journey there are other forms of obstacles in countries of transit and destination. In this regard, there is a strong need to combat growing xenophobia, rising nationalist populist politics and terror attacks in many parts of the world, including in the developed countries. Governments are responsible for the safety and security of their people. However, the primary focus on security concerns heavily colours border management policies devised by countries.

5.The process of human migration in search of better life is as old as humanity itself. In a world of growing interconnectedness where capital and technology move seamlessly, it would be unreasonable to put a compete clampdown on movement of humans. The narrowing of regular migration channels has resulted in organized smuggling cartels across the world. The SR on human rights of migrants also highlights the disempowering impact of detention on migrants. We urge the concerned member states to undertake a comprehensive review of their approach on migration and mobility.

I thank you, Mr.President.

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