Seeking Asylum Is Not Weakness but Helplessness: Maryam Nawaz on World Refugee Day

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, in her message on World Refugee Day, said that seeking asylum is not a crime but a painful compulsion, stressing that those who seek refuge are not weak but victims of circumstances.

She said that no one becomes a refugee by choice; rather, people are forced to leave their homes, land, and shelter to save their lives. “Wars may end, but the displacement of refugees lasts for generations,” she added.

Highlighting global crises, the chief minister said that displaced people from Palestine and Syria represent a serious test for humanity. She urged the world to understand that those seeking refuge are not weak but are oppressed and vulnerable.

Maryam Nawaz further stated that Pakistan, despite limited resources, has generously hosted millions of refugees with dignity. She said Pakistan has always stood with the oppressed and will continue to raise its voice for the welfare of refugees.

She concluded by praying for global peace, an end to oppression, and a world where every person can live peacefully in their own home and city.