In the 19th edition of a symbolic event in support of displaced migrants, the third-largest city in France recently hosted a rally, Euronews reports.
Despite the increasing number of asylum applications, activists and human rights defenders are calling on society to show solidarity instead of closing its doors.
In Lyon, on the occasion of International Refugee Day, a traditional "Umbrella March" took place, organized by French NGOs, urging fellow citizens to demonstrate solidarity and support asylum seekers arriving in Europe.
"I don't know what I would have done without human rights associations. The situation was such that it was difficult for me to talk about what I had been through, so close to the point of suicide," shared refugee Raisa Flor.
According to the Lyon-based organization "Forum Réfugiés" (Refugee Forum), the situation for those seeking temporary protection in Europe has become increasingly precarious in recent years.
As the number of displaced individuals continues to rise, volunteer organizations often rely on host families. Odile Lacour has opened her home to refugees, saying, "For the past 10 years, we have been sharing our shelter with asylum seekers. We are outraged that even if these displaced individuals have documents allowing them to stay in the country, no one takes care of their resettlement, and they are forced to sleep on the streets."
Unfortunately, this has become a common occurrence. Yakubu Banganu had to endure many hardships before being granted refugee status. Reflecting on his journey, he recalled, "When I arrived, it was very difficult. I slept at the train station, and I had no one. Receiving families are helping me, and that's where I live."
According to "Forum Réfugiés," the number of asylum applications in Europe has reached its highest level since 2016.
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