Senegal’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yacine Fall, addressed the National Assembly about a bilateral agreement with Morocco concerning prisoner assistance. Lawmakers expressed grave concerns regarding the treatment of Senegalese citizens abroad, particularly focusing on issues related to residence permits and advocating for reciprocal rights between countries. Calls for a stronger protective policy for Senegalese in foreign nations were echoed by multiple MPs, highlighting the urgent need for equity in treatment for Senegalese expatriates.
On Monday, Yacine Fall, the Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, addressed the National Assembly regarding a bill related to an agreement between Senegal and Morocco. This agreement focuses on the support provided to prisoners and the transfer of convicted individuals. During her address, the minister highlighted concerns about the plight of Senegalese citizens abroad, particularly regarding residence permits.
The minister underscored the challenges faced by Senegalese expatriates, notably in Mauritania, where the absence of residence permits leads to harassment. She pointed out that while countries establish their regulations for foreign residents, it is essential for them to uphold human rights and treat foreigners with dignity. Fall emphasized, “It is not acceptable to persecute a person simply because they do not have a residence permit.”
MP Tahirou Sarr echoed these sentiments, demanding reciprocity in how foreign nationals are treated in Senegal. He criticized the disparity where foreigners from countries such as Gabon, Morocco, and Mauritania can reside freely in Senegal, while Senegalese citizens face exorbitant fees for residence permits in these nations. Sarr asserted the need for Senegal to demand equality and fairness for its citizens abroad, rejecting the notion of unilateral tolerance.
Several other MPs, including Guy Marius Sagna and Babacar Ndiaye, supported Sarr’s stance and called for a more assertive approach in advocating for Senegalese rights. They urged the government to establish a policy that ensures fair treatment for Senegalese in their host countries, stating, “It is time for Senegal to demand fair treatment for its citizens, like the countries where we send our compatriots.”
This ongoing debate highlights the critical issue of migrant rights and the necessity to reassess bilateral agreements with various nations. The demand for improved conditions for Senegalese abroad continues, shedding light on the urgent need for protective measures in line with both national and international laws.
In conclusion, the discussions in the Senegalese National Assembly reflect a growing concern regarding the treatment of Senegalese citizens abroad. There is a clear demand for reciprocal rights and fairness from both Senegal and host countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes the importance of respecting human dignity regardless of immigration status, while legislators advocate for policies that ensure equal treatment for Senegalese expatriates. The dialogue surrounding these issues continues to evolve, indicating a pressing need for action and reform.
Original Source: www.senenews.com
