[15/03/2013 11:00] "It is high time for European states to consider a different take on migration, one of rational management that would fully respect the civil, political and social rights of migrants", said Commissioner Muižnieks today at a Conference organized by the European Economic and Social Committee in Brussels. "Migrants should not become scapegoats for the difficulties faced by Europe. Instead, European states should recognise the benefits of welcoming migrants and of setting an adequate framework for their participation in the European economy and societies". The Commissioner also stressed that the presence of migrants is necessary in view of the serious demographic crisis faced by European nations. "Protecting migrants is a moral and legal obligation that no European state can renounce and the human rights perspective should not be lost in any discussion or policy concerning migrants".
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