UNHCR urges states not to demonize refugees over Paris attacks
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GENEVA - The United Nations urged European countries on Tuesday not to react to Friday's attacks in Paris by rejecting or blaming refugees, the vast majority of whom were fleeing persecution or conflict.
"We are concerned about reactions by some states to end the programs being put in place, backtracking from commitments made to manage the refugee crisis (i.e. relocation), or proposing the erection of more barriers," UNHCR's chief spokeswoman Melissa Fleming said.
"We are deeply disturbed by language that demonizes refugees as a group. This is dangerous as it will contribute to xenophobia and fear."
She said UNHCR was deeply concerned by the "yet unconfirmed" report that one of the attackers in the Paris attack may have entered Europe as part of the influx of refugees.
