Senegalese Lawmakers Advocate for Rights and Reciprocity for…

Senegalese MPs, including Minister Yacine Fall and MP Tahirou Sarr, have called for reciprocity in treatment for Senegalese citizens living abroad, particularly concerning residence permits. The recent National Assembly discussions highlighted the difficulties faced by Senegalese in foreign nations and emphasized the importance of countries respecting human rights. There is a collective demand for fairness and a reevaluation of bilateral agreements to protect Senegalese citizens.

On Monday, Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, Yacine Fall, addressed the National Assembly regarding a bill enabling the Senegalese president to ratify an agreement with Morocco concerning prisoner assistance and transfers. During this session, she addressed deputies’ concerns regarding Senegalese nationals living abroad and their challenges with residence permits.

Minister Fall highlighted the plight of Senegalese citizens, especially in Mauritania, where the lack of residence permits puts them at risk of harassment. She acknowledged that while Senegalese must adhere to the laws of their host countries, it is equally essential for these nations to uphold human rights and human dignity. “It is not acceptable to persecute a person simply because they do not have a residence permit,” she stated.

MP Tahirou Sarr echoed Minister Fall’s sentiments while underscoring the demand for reciprocity. He pointed out the inconsistency of numerous foreigners comfortably residing in Senegal while Senegalese face exorbitant fees for permits in other countries. He argued that Senegal should not remain a “ground of unilateral tolerance”.

Other MPs, including Guy Marius Sagna and Babacar Ndiaye, supported this call for reciprocity. They asserted the necessity for Senegal to demand equitable treatment for its citizens in other countries, emphasizing the importance of fair and reciprocal practices. “It is time for Senegal to demand fair treatment for its citizens, like the countries where we send our compatriots,” they declared.

This discussion raises significant inquiries about migrant rights and the necessity for evaluating Senegal’s bilateral agreements with both African and international partners. The dialogue surrounding reciprocity in the treatment of foreign nationals intensifies, advocating for enhanced protective measures for Senegalese abroad. While the issues of permits and detainee assistance remain pivotal, they reflect the broader endeavor to safeguard the rights of Senegalese citizens internationally under both national and international law.

In conclusion, the recent discussions in the Senegalese National Assembly highlight concerns regarding the rights of Senegalese citizens living abroad. Minister Yacine Fall’s emphasis on residence permits, coupled with MP Sarr’s call for reciprocity, reflects the commitment of Senegalese lawmakers to ensure equal treatment for their compatriots internationally. The ongoing dialogue aims for a more just and equitable approach to migrant rights and the responsibilities of host nations.

Original Source: www.senenews.com