“Viacrucis del Migrante, paintings by Sigifredo Camacho”

Ambassador Gallegos Chiriboga
Monsignor Tomasi
Excellencies
Ladies and gentlemen:

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the opening of this exhibition, organized by the Permanent Mission of Ecuador and the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See. I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to both Ambassador Gallegos Chiriboga and Monsignor Tomasi for making this event possible and for highlighting the important issue of migration.

Today, we are living in an era of unprecedented human mobility, with the greatest number of people ever living outside their country or region of origin. According to the International Organization for Migration, one of out of every 33 persons in the world today is a migrant. Migration touches us all. It affects all countries in all regions, whether as countries of origin, transit or destination or any combination thereof. Migrants contribute to economic growth and human development in both their home and host countries and enrich societies through cultural diversity, and through fostering understanding and respect among peoples, cultures and societies.

Given the significance of migration trends, the United Nations has increasingly recognized the importance of cooperation and dialogue on migration matters. It has also stressed the relevance of migration to human rights and to all three pillars of sustainable development – economic, social and environmental. The beginning of the post-2015 development framework process, represents an ideal opportunity to include migration issues in development planning at all levels.

It is not by coincidence that this exhibition is being opened in the margins of the 22nd session of the Human Rights Council. Although migration may represent a positive and empowering experience for some, far too many migrants have to endure human rights violations, discrimination, and exploitation. Many are denied access to fundamental economic and social rights such as education or health, and face prejudice, xenophobia and discriminatory laws or practice.

Here in Geneva, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and the International Organization for Migration take the lead in addressing the many issues faced by migrants and encourage broad-based dialogue, partnership and consensus-building.

Excellencies
Ladies and Gentlemen:

These paintings by Mr. Camacho epitomize the emotions, the struggles and the hope that migrants carry with them as they search for greater opportunity in new lands. As we reflect upon them, let us also reflect on the role of migration in development and in the protection and promotion of human rights.

Thank you very much.