The high level event organised by the Order of Malta “Perceptions matter: migration and international security”, that took place within the Munich Security Conference 2022, addressed the phenomenon of migration from a multidisciplinary standpoint, placing all stakeholders at the centre of the narrative, from migrants to hosting communities. In his opening remarks of the side event the Grand Chancellor of the Order of Malta Albrecht Boeselager stressed how the concept of national security has evolved over the past decades: “National security is impossible to ensure without human security. Human security requires that the rights of all individuals present in a given territory, regardless of their legal status, are safeguarded. Human security involves a people-centred, comprehensive and prevention-oriented policy that strengthens the protection of all people” he explained.
The event took place on Friday 18 February on the eve of the new threats of war at the doors of Europe and participants, including European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas, expressed preoccupation for the inevitable new wave of displacement of the population which would follow a Russian invasion of Ukrainian territories. In his remarks, the Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Gallagher stressed the global nature of the migration phenomenon that affects all continents: from Africa to Asia, from America to Oceania.
Attention was drawn to the need to reinforce the observance of humanitarian international laws so that even in times of conflict migrants, refugees and IDPs are treated respectfully and humanly. “Migrants and refugees have become hostage of political standstills. It is the case of the thousands of refugees – including children and elderly – trapped in below zero temperatures at the border zone between Poland and Belarus, with no food or shelter. We firmly condemn their exploitation on behalf of governments” stated Boeselager in his speech.
The Moldovan President Maia Sandu and the director of UNICRI (United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute), Antonia Marie de Meo also participated in the discussion.
