The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to UN Office in Geneva аmbassador Sterk commends IOM as key partner in implementing voluntary returns of illegal migrants and for incorporating disability in all aspects of its humanitarian response, raises concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and Ethiopia

Following the participation of Deputy Foreign Minister Mr Todor Churov in the High Level Segment of the 112th session of the International Organisation for Migration, focused on the impact of COVID-19 on migration processes, the Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the UN Office in Geneva, Ambassador Yuri Sterk, took part in the General debate of the Session.

The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria congratulated the IOM and its staff on the Organization’s 70th anniversary. He further stressed that IOM is Bulgaria’s key partner in areas such as voluntary return, reintegration, and integration of foreigners, and in efforts to combat human trafficking, drawing attention also to the recently adopted country’s new National Migration Strategy for 2021-2025.

Ambassador Sterk stated further Bulgaria’s full solidarity with the EU Member States affected by third states’ attempts to instrumentalise migrants for political purposes in order to exert pressure on European borders. He deplored the loss of life caused by such inhumane practices, which violate international law and human rights.

He stressed the disproportionate effects of the COVID-19 pandemic particularly on women, children and persons with disabilities, and expressed support to IOM’s determination to incorporate disability in all aspects of its humanitarian response, reminding also that Bulgaria’s financial support for the IOM’s activities in this field.

The Bulgarian diplomat highlighted Bulgaria’s grave concerns over the worsening humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, as well as over the rapidly deteriorating situation in Ethiopia, calling on all parties involved to fully respect human rights, comply with their obligations under international humanitarian law and commit to good-faith efforts towards peaceful settlement.

Ambassador Sterk reiterated the strong support by Bulgaria for IOM as the global lead agency for migration and for its efforts to address the challenges humanity is facing.