The right to cross borders is in the news. Refugees and economic migrants are detained at holding stations to determine where they will be allowed to go. Tourists fully expect to be able to jet around the world with visa applications a mere formality. We, who are relatively safe within our borders, must surely have an obligation to help those who are fleeing war zones.
Families in unseaworthy vessels with insufficient food and water became the frequent news stories of rescue or disaster. Eventually money and resources were found from EU nations to help relieve the suffering of millions.
Germany responded in the most humanitarian way to the refugee crisis by opening its borders. Others in Europe are still trying to dissuade refugees from entering their territory by erecting security walls and fences along their borders.
The current UK government favours giving money, rather than sanctuary to those in need. Reducing the number of immigrants to the UK is seen as a vote winner, whether they are refugees fleeing war zones or EU citizens attracted by higher wages and better job prospects.
A community of nations that allows its citizens to travel freely within its borders, whether for work or pleasure, sounds like a practical arrangement. The European Union originally embraced that philosophy. The refugee crisis and the expansion of the EU have put that ideal in jeopardy.
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