Filipino Community Run for Undocumented Migrants in Switzerland

(PIA) – Filipino community in Berne, Switzerland recently participated in the solidarity run for undocumented migrants in Switzerland.

The event was organized by the Berner Beratungsstelle für Sans-Papiers, a non-profit organization giving advice and assistance to undocumented persons in the country.

According to the organization, the high turnout of participants and supporters, with Swiss nationals and other nationalities, is a sign of encouragement and strong cooperation for the rights of undocumented migrants in Switzerland.

The Berner Beratungsstelle für Sans-Papiers, founded in 2002, is comprised of parliamentarians, correspondents from various cantons, local and national NGOs, churches, charities, trade unions and political parties. The members meet at least five times a year and share their practical and legal knowledge, coordinates with the public and advocate for reforms in Switzerland for better protection for migrants.

The organization estimates that there could be as high as 300,000 illegal migrants in Switzerland to date. Most are denied their basic rights and live in constant fear, or work in unstable and dangerous conditions, says the organization.

The group also gives vocational training and provide for health insurance for undocumented migrants in the country. (DFA/RJB/JEG/PIA-NCR)