Michel Temer’s words in his last speech at the un general assembly
The President emphasised humanitarian reception for Venezuelans, a stance that is in direct contrast to the 55 thousand people who have requested protection in Brazil and have not been conceded refugee status.
President Michel Temer speaking at the opening ceremony of the 73rd General Assembly of the United Nations (UN) in New York.
In a speech during the opening ceremony of the 73rd UN General Assembly, in New York, President Michel Temer spoke about government initiatives for the reception of Venezuelan refugees arriving in Brazil, principally at the Roraima border. Temer mentioned the construction of shelters and interiorisation programmes, but did not comment on the case of over 55 thousand applications for refugee status that still await a decision by Conare (the National Committee for Refugees).
“It is a shame that Temer did not acknowledge the need for humanitarian reception and swift analysis of applications for refugee status for Venezuelans arriving in Brazil. Brazil could do much more with regards to this migratory flow, by strengthening interiorisation initiatives and also integration into society.” Said Camila Asano, Conectas Programme Coordinator.
Temer also spoke about multilateralism with a view to strengthening diplomatic ties and setting up commercial agreements and international treaties, like the Treaty for the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which Brazil was one of the first countries to sign. Sustainable development was also mentioned in the speech, with promises to reduce the rate of deforestation and carbon emissions. “Temer’s words in defence of multilateralism are a far cry from Brazil’s increasingly timid foreign policy.” Said Asano.
