In the wake of a major humanitarian and displacement crisis, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) commends the Philippine government’s commitment in opening its doors to refugees fleeing Afghanistan, and its recent pledge during the United Nation’s flash appeal to extend financial aid for humanitarian response in the now Taliban-controlled country.

As it has done in the past, the Philippine government’s openness to welcome forcibly displaced individuals from conflict-stricken nations, such as Afghanistan, has been consistent to its obligation as a State Party to the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 protocol—the international document that protect the rights of refugees.

When governments are unwilling or fail to guarantee the basic human rights of its citizens in their own countries, the international community, including the Philippines, has the responsibility to step in to ensure that affected individuals’ rights and physical safety are protected.

While we respect the national sovereignty of States, the CHR asserts that all human beings, within or outside their country’s borders, deserve to be treated with dignity and respect and to be assured recognition of their human rights, including access to services needed to realise those rights. This is regardless of their migratory status and in accordance with the common good and international law.

Likewise, the Commission welcomes the continuing efforts of the Department of Foreign Affairs in ensuring the safe repatriation of Filipinos living in Afganistan.

Together with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and other international humanitarian institutions, the CHR hopes to see an end to the hostilities in Afghanistan while also emphasising the need to focus on durable solutions for all, particular for those in vulnerable situations such as separated and unaccompanied children, women at risk, or those otherwise unsafe on the move, or unable to return safely to their country of origin.

In the spirit of international cooperation, solidarity, and human rights, the Commission hopes for the continued prompt action of the Philippine government to provide refuge to the displaced Afghan people. ###