The Senegalese association "Présence Chrétienne, Groupe de Réflexion et d’Action" has raised concerns about the resurgence of anti-foreigner rhetoric in public discourse. In a recent statement, the group called for citizens to be aware of the issue and urged them to "expel xenophobia, not foreigners." They emphasized the importance of hospitality, citing traditional Senegalese values and Christian teachings. The group noted that xenophobic comments have increased in recent months, prompting their call to action.
Présence Chrétienne is advocating for a collective effort to address the issue, urging citizens, leaders, and institutions to take responsibility. They believe that the government has a legitimate right to regulate migration and immigration but criticize attempts to blame economic difficulties on migrants and foreign workers. The group is pushing for fair treatment of foreigners in Senegal, emphasizing that their experience should reflect the respect and protection Senegalese citizens expect abroad.
The association has proposed several measures to address the issue, including establishing mechanisms to report discrimination and facilitating the regularization of stay for West African Economic and Monetary Union and African Union nationals. They also recommend training law enforcement officers to manage diversity effectively. Furthermore, Présence Chrétienne is calling on the media and the National Council of Audiovisual Regulation to establish an ethics charter for covering migration topics and to rigorously moderate online content to curb hate speech.
Présence Chrétienne's appeal extends to political and opinion leaders, urging them to promote calming and unifying discourse. The group encourages civil society and religious actors to establish a permanent interfaith and intercultural dialogue framework to strengthen social peace and consolidate tolerance values. By doing so, they aim to foster a culture of acceptance and inclusivity in Senegal.
The association emphasizes that Senegal's tradition of hospitality, known as Teranga, should translate into a daily ethical requirement. They argue that this value is essential in shaping the country's attitude towards foreigners. By upholding this principle, Présence Chrétienne believes Senegal can set an example in promoting tolerance and protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their nationality.
Liboire SAGNA, a representative of the association, has highlighted the urgency of the situation. The group is concerned that if left unchecked, xenophobic tendencies could escalate and undermine social cohesion in Senegal. Présence Chrétienne is therefore pushing for immediate action to address the issue and promote a culture of acceptance and inclusivity.
The association's efforts aim to ensure that Senegal maintains its reputation as a country that welcomes and protects foreigners. Présence Chrétienne believes that by working together, Senegalese citizens, leaders, and institutions can create a society where everyone feels valued and respected. The group remains committed to promoting tolerance and advocating for the rights of all individuals in Senegal.
Key points
- Présence Chrétienne calls for collective action against xenophobia and discrimination in Senegal.
- The association proposes measures to address the issue, including establishing mechanisms to report discrimination and facilitating regularization of stay for foreign nationals.
- Présence Chrétienne emphasizes the importance of upholding Senegal's tradition of hospitality and promoting a culture of acceptance and inclusivity.
