Senegal’s Minister of African Integration, Yacine Fall, addressed the National Assembly about a new agreement with Morocco concerning prisoner treatment, amid concerns for Senegalese citizens abroad facing difficulties with residence permits. MPs called for reciprocal rights for Senegalese in foreign countries, stressing the need for fairness as many foreigners can live in Senegal without issues, unlike their Senegalese counterparts abroad. This discussion raises significant questions about the protection of migrant rights and potential reviews of bilateral agreements.
On Monday, Yacine Fall, the Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, addressed the National Assembly regarding a proposed agreement between Senegal and Morocco concerning prisoner assistance and inmate transfers. During this session, the minister responded to deputies’ concerns regarding the rights of Senegalese citizens living abroad, particularly focusing on issues surrounding residence permits.
Minister Fall highlighted the significant challenges faced by Senegalese individuals in host countries, especially in Mauritania, where the absence of residence permits leads to harsh harassment. She emphasized the necessity for Senegalese nationals to adhere to local laws while also asserting that host countries must uphold human rights and the dignity of all individuals. “It is not acceptable to persecute a person simply because they do not have a residence permit,” she affirmed.
MP Tahirou Sarr voiced similar concerns, emphasizing the need for reciprocity. He questioned the fairness of allowing numerous foreigners from countries like Gabon, Morocco, and Mauritania to reside freely in Senegal while Senegalese citizens face exorbitant fees for residence permits abroad. Sarr insisted that Senegal can no longer be seen as a “ground of unilateral tolerance.”
Supporting this viewpoint, MPs Guy Marius Sagna and Babacar Ndiaye also called for a firm approach from Senegal in demanding equitable treatment for its citizens. They stated, “It is time for Senegal to demand fair treatment for its citizens, like the countries where we send our compatriots.”
This scenario underscores the critical need to uphold migrant rights and may necessitate a review of all bilateral agreements between Senegal and its partners, addressing the importance of equal conditions for Senegalese globally. The discussion on residence permits and detainee assistance exemplifies a broader imperative—protecting the rights of Senegalese abroad in alignment with both national and international laws.
The recent parliamentary discussions highlight the growing concerns regarding the rights of Senegalese citizens living abroad, particularly the challenges posed by residence permit issues. Legislators advocate for reciprocal treatment and fairness in international relations. The emphasis on human rights and dignified treatment reflects an urgent need for revisions to bilateral agreements, ensuring that the rights of Senegalese migrants are safeguarded. Overall, the call for mutual respect and reciprocity underscores the importance of equitable practices for Senegalese nationals overseas, enhancing their dignity and legal standing in host countries.
Original Source: www.senenews.com
