UN chief calls for respect for refugees

Marking the International Day of Tolerance, Ban said in a message on Wednesday the UN promotes tolerance as a matter of its fundamental identity, Xinhua news agency reported.

United Nations, Nov 17 UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on the international community to promote tolerance, respect and dignity for refugees and migrants across the world.

Marking the International Day of Tolerance, Ban said in a message on Wednesday the UN promotes tolerance as a matter of its fundamental identity, Xinhua news agency reported.

However, Ban noted that as refugees and migrants continue face xenophobia, the values of tolerance and mutual understanding are facing profound tests around the world.

In this regard, Ban called for efforts to promote mutual understanding and global harmony for a united community.

The International Day of Tolerance is observed annually on November 16.

This year, the UN has launched a new global campaign called "Together" to reduce negative perceptions towards refugees and migrants and to strengthen the social contract between host countries and communities.

IANS