Refuge for refugees

At the same time, our generosity must be coupled with responsibility.

A clear legal framework to govern this process (complete with laws and regulations) should be put in place to ensure the system is fair and rational and to protect our national security interests.

It is not surprising there has been an increase in the number of refugees, as recently stated by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees protection officer Rubén Barbado. Turmoil in Venezuela and the crisis in war-ravaged Syria have understandably sent individuals from those countries to these shores.

Venezuela is our closest neighbour and has long-standing economic and social ties to this country.

Syria may be far away, but there are clearly Trinidad and Tobago citizens who are of Syrian ancestry and who may still maintain ties with that country. But the large number of refugees from Cuba is a less obvious matter, especially in a time when the trend had been to reverse US restrictions on that island given its human rights abuses. However, US President Donald Trump’s racist attitude to members of the Latin American community — as well as his rolling back of some of Barack Obama’s relaxing of rules in relation to Cuba – have probably triggered a mass exodus.

Whatever the causes of the influx, we have a moral responsibility to the global community. We cannot simply stand by as fellow human beings and leave other people to suffer no matter their race or nationality. If individuals can be accommodated here, we must do as much as is humanly possible.

Indeed, our history as a destination for individuals from all continents of the world dictates that we should lend a compassionate hand.

Migrants have come here from Europe and Asia seeking better lives.

Slaves were brought here against their will from Africa, but thereafter obtained freedom and remained here to build better lives.

If we were to have a closeddoor policy not only would this be wrong, but it would be inimical to our interests in the long run. For there might come a day when we, too, might need to call upon the international community for help — be it asylum status or otherwise.

In fact, cynics might state our current state of affairs, with high crime levels, a stressed healthcare system, low levels of affordable housing and outdated infrastructure, might soon merit a mass exodus.

Yet, while we are a developing country and have the problems associated with that status, there is much here to celebrate. Our standard of living, though it could be better, is still relatively high, and we remain a free society. Which is why many foreigners might be enticed to choose this country over others.

There being a clear justification for an open-door policy, it falls to the State to properly regulate that policy.

We do not know if there is a vital need for legislation on refugees, but Barbado certainly implies this is the case. Indeed, it would be best if the entire process is subject to clear rules and procedures that are widely known. A formal process that is placed under the jurisdiction of appropriate governmental and inter- governmental bodies capable of managing it is desirable. Such a framework, manned by such bodies, would be in a better position to examine each applicant and conduct the necessary checks. At the end of the day a more regulated system can offer scrutiny and thereby safeguard our security. So while we should have an open door, there must be a clear path to the entryway. Refugees are welcome, but border control should be bolstered to ensure the country they so desire to live in remains a desirable refuge.