A renowned American Roman Catholic, Gregory Joseph Boyle, S.J. once stated that abject poverty, political instability, torture, and other abuses push thousands across our borders. There is not a deterrent imaginable that equals the conditions that force their migration. This clearly explains the broad and multi-fated nature of migration.
Around the world especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, people especially youths are always on the move and most of the time on irregular and clandestine means. Lack of good prospects and opportunities is the main driver forcing thousands of youth to seek greener pastures in the West.
Migration in general is a cross-cutting and sensitive issue. And in the recent past it has presented one of the most daunting challenges to contain.
To combat this growing phenomenon, which is a multi-million business for some especially traffickers, therefore requires a multinational approach. Countries have to put in place measures to curb this growing exodus of youth to the West.
Meanwhile, in the West, politicians are divided and there are growing calls in some areas for the expulsion of undocumented migrants for various reasons.
In fact, this has forced many EU countries to devise stringent measures in tackling this challenging problem. The Gambia has recently been recognised as one of the highest recipients of remittance per capita in the world, according to Finance and Economic Affairs Minister Seedy K.M. Keita. This is based on the significant improvement in data collection by the Central Bank of The Gambia.
It was reported in our previous edition that an Immigration Bill currently circulated among members of the French Parliament to be debated and subjected to possible amendments could pave the way amongst others “to grant hundreds of “undocumented but qualified”, Senegambians and other migrants the appropriate permit is to live and work in France.
This is a welcome development and a cause to celebrate in view of the fact that France is home to so many young Gambians, some of whom are still without required papers. Despite the fact that some are still looking for required papers, they continue to support their respective families back home.
We cannot but hail the French lawmakers for their foresight in tabling such an important Bill for scrutiny. We only hope and pray that the Bill gets the blessing of the French lawmakers and takes into effect as soonest, as it will no doubt herald another chapter for thousands of Senegambians living and working in France.
Also, the introduction of this new Bill would further ensure and promote the rights of Senegambian migrants and to be granted genuine documents. Other European nations should also follow suit as it would help our young Gambians to integrate.