Migration

Throughout the history of humanity, the world has seen movements of people from place to place, from country to country, and from continent to continent. Some people move from poor countries to richer ones in pursuit of prosperity, while others move to other countries seeking new lifestyles or even a happy retirement.

According to the International Organization for Migration (IMO), there are more than 300 million migrants around the world. The United Nations in the “International Migration Report 2006”, projected that the numbers of people living outside their country of birth will rise. Migrants often bring distinct economic benefits and skills with them.

However, it is no surpise when there are some problems of integration and instances of conflicts. What can be done to avoid clashes? Perhaps both immigrants and the community need to be more aware of their responsibilities so that immigrants try to adapt to cultural norms and laws and integrate as much as possible and host communities' respect and welcome newcomers whilst ensuring that local populations do not feel very concerned. On the other hand some of the new ones who come to settle and become citizens get frustrated as they feel that they are second class citizens. Having mentioned that, many integrate and establish themselves in the highest positions and become very sucessful in their new country.

We have emphasised the importance of tolerance. Sometimes situations are complicated due to the unstable situations in different parts of the world including economic pressures. Both sides need to adapt to changing situations whilst ensuring that the community is not destablised in anyway, above all justice and fairness need to be seen to prevail and it has not always done so.

Harmonious community relations depend on understanding, peace, and mutual respect.