U. N. Chief Calls for Compassion for Immigrants

By Juan Garcia

Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon recalled his flight from Korea in the 1950s as he spoke of the current plight of millions of refugees. Ki-moon said greater solidarity was needed to confront the global refugee crisis. He emphasized the need for all countries to help, including by granting asylum.

Ki-moon made his remarks at Lehman College in the Bronx on March 17th, in a lecture “From Turmoil to Opportunity.” He also rang the Lehman College Peace Bell – a symbol for global harmony and non-violence – alongside Lehman College President Fernández.

Ki-moon said that Lehman students, many of whom are immigrants or children of immigrants, might have a special insight into the plight of refugees. “You have all seen the heart-breaking images of people perishing at sea during perilous escapes from conflict,” he said. “These are people no different than you and me. Many have lost everything – homes, jobs, loved ones – and they have no choice but to flee to an uncertain future.”

Ki-moon mentioned his own family was forced to flee the Korean War in the 1950s and emphasized the need for bridges, not barriers. “We are speaking out against hate-filled rhetoric about refugees and migrants, whether it comes from leaders, office-seekers, ordinary citizens or the media.”

Ki-moon also talked about women’s rights about the possibility of a woman becoming his successor. “Personally I believe is a good idea. But I sincerely hope that the next secretary of the United Nations will be the most qualified, and the most distinguished and capable person. Let’s hope that that most capable and distinctive person is a woman.”

Ki-moon describes his visit to refugee camps in his address at Lehman College.