For those fleeing poverty, violence, or religious persecution, North Africa is one stop on their journey to Europe in search of a better life. Several religious organizations serve migrants in this region.
EMILIO ROCHA
Apostolic Administrator, Diocese of Tangier
We are continuously working with both types of migrants—those who have higher legal recognition because of their status as students as well as those who are here looking for entrance into Spain.
This makes the contact with them particularly powerful because we match names and faces - not necessarily to those who have died in this wave - but to many others who have tried.
The Diocesan Delegation of Migration in Tangier has assisted more than 7,000 people in northern Morocco since its creation in 2011. In recent years, the number of women migrants has grown. As a result, the Delegation has extended its services to women and children through different programs.
EMILIO ROCHA
Apostolic Administrator, Diocese of Tangier
Primiarily, our task involves meeting all psychological, sanitation, food, and hygeiene needs.
FLASH (3:54-4:18)
And at the same time, we have been working extensively in the countries of origin, specifically those where the most migrants come from, to try to collaborate as much as we can to stop migration at its source. Obviously, people who flee their countries do so because they have no means of livelihood. No one leaves their country for sport or leisure.
Both Christian and non-denominational associations work with the Spanish and Moroccan governments because together, they can accomplish more.
JOSEP BUADES
Jesuit Migrant Service
The Church is working at the ground level. It is helping the wounded in Morocco. It's carrying out a work of mercy, a humanitarian work that is part of the Church's mission in the Kingdom of Morocco.
The Church is accompanying, serving, advocating, and defending rights of the people.
The Church is constantly looking for allies to accomplish this mission and there are never enough volunteers.
RM
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