Senegalese MPs, led by Minister Yacine Fall, have demanded reciprocity and respect for the rights of Senegalese citizens abroad. The discussions center on immigration policies, particularly residence permits, calling for equal treatment for Senegalese in host countries. The MPs emphasize the need for Senegal to adopt a firmer stance on migrants’ rights and review its bilateral agreements with partner nations.

On Monday, Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, Yacine Fall, addressed the National Assembly regarding a bill that would enable the Senegalese president to ratify a cooperation agreement with Morocco. This agreement focuses on assistance for prisoners and the transfer of convicted individuals. During the session, the minister addressed deputies’ concerns regarding the situation of Senegalese nationals in host countries, specifically regarding issues related to residence permits.

Minister Fall highlighted the challenges faced by Senegalese citizens, especially in Mauritania, where the absence of residence permits exposes them to significant harassment. While she acknowledged that each country has its own regulations for foreigners, she stressed the importance of compliance with local laws. Nevertheless, she asserted that host countries must also adhere to human rights norms and uphold the dignity of individuals. “It is not acceptable to persecute a person simply because they do not have a residence permit,” stated Yacine Fall.

MP Tahirou Sarr advocated for reciprocity during the session, illustrating his concerns over the treatment of Senegalese compared to foreigners in Senegal. He emphasized that it is difficult to comprehend how numerous foreigners can reside freely in Senegal while Senegalese nationals in countries such as Gabon, Morocco, and Mauritania face exorbitant fees for residence permits. Sarr questioned the fairness in this disparity, asserting that Senegal should no longer be viewed as a “ground of unilateral tolerance.”

MPs Guy Marius Sagna and Babacar Ndiaye echoed Sarr’s sentiments, calling for Senegal to adopt a firmer stance on the matter. They urged a policy of reciprocity regarding foreign nationals, emphasizing the need for Senegal to demand equitable treatment for its citizens abroad as counterparts in other nations are afforded.

The discussions illuminate ongoing concerns regarding the respect for migrants’ rights along with the necessity of reevaluating bilateral agreements between Senegal and its partners. The debate regarding the reciprocity in the treatment of foreign nationals remains fervent, with growing calls for more protective measures for Senegalese living overseas. The issues surrounding residence permits and support for detainees reflect wider concerns regarding the safeguarding of the rights of Senegalese citizens abroad, aligned with both national and international standards.

In summary, the session involving Minister Yacine Fall and the National Assembly highlighted critical issues relating to the treatment of Senegalese citizens abroad, particularly concerning residence permits and respect for their rights. There is a growing call among MPs for a reciprocal approach to immigration policies, advocating for fair treatment of Senegalese abroad akin to that offered to foreigners in Senegal. The discussions underscore the need for robust protective measures for citizens and a review of existing bilateral agreements to ensure compliance with human rights norms.

Original Source: www.senenews.com

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