According to the International Migrant Stock 2019, the number of international migrants reached 272 million in 2019, continuing an upward trend in all regions of the world. This is an increase of 51 million migrants since 2010. The UN also reports that in 2019 Europe hosted the largest number of international migrants (82 million), followed by North America (59 million), North Africa and Western Asia (49 million).
Very often it is the younger ones who leave their homeland in search of a better job, education and lifestyle. Many of them choose to leave, but many others are forced to migrate to escape poverty, violence or conflict; others are displaced by the effects of war or climate change. The UN notes that many young people leave their country for humanitarian reasons, as refugees and asylum seekers.
All over the world, Salesian missionaries look after these young people and provide them with educational services. Young migrants, on their journey in search of a new lifestyle, often face rejection, homelessness, exploitation and delinquency. They also risk becoming victims of trafficking in human beings.
"Salesian programs help young migrants to adapt to the new environment through language training and thanks to workforce development programs," said Fr Gus Baek, Head of Salesian Missions. "Lack of work is one of the main causes of emigration. Young people leave their countries of origin in search of a better life. In addition to helping young migrants, Salesian missionaries are working to create new educational and work opportunities in the countries from which young people leave, as an incentive to stay at home," he added.
“Salesian Missions” also recalled that the Covid-19 pandemic has hit migrants hard. Far from home, often without a steady job, many are left homeless and without any source of income. Salesian missionaries - in particular in India, Guatemala, Peru and Spain - have concentrated on giving further support to migrants.
To know more and in detail about the actions in favor of migrants, please consult the “Mission Newswire” website.
