In recent years, voluntary as well as forced migration has considerably changed the face of many European countries. The issue of a common commitment to humanity and respect for human rights, and the issue of cultural openness, also strongly affect the life and activities of the Christian churches and diaconia.

In many European countries, migratory movements have caused a new ethnic and cultural diversity which has sometimes led to tensions with the settled population. As migration has been considered a temporary phenomenon, there have not been adequate strategies to promote integration of and co-operation with settlers and newcomers, and to avoid social conflict and exclusion.

In recent decades European countries have increasingly closed their borders against refugees. The concept of safe third countries moved central and eastern European countries into the role of buffer states for refugees. No firm joint strategy with regard to refugees of war and civil war, in cases of mass influx, has yet been established by the European states. Advocacy by churches and diaconal organisations has had little effect on European politics.

The immigration of Christians from other countries, and with different denominational and cultural backgrounds, is an new challenge for settled churches, thus patterns of co-operation are still lacking in many places. There is even less experience of co-operation with people of other faiths, in particular Muslims.

The increase in racism and xenophobia is alarming in many European countries. There are violent attacks and murders in public, as well as subtle discrimination and exclusion in everyday life.

In many European countries the number of undocumented persons has grown considerably. These people, particularly women, are threatened with discrimination and exploitation. As the economy makes good profits on undocumented labour, there is little readiness to tackle this problem other than through border control. Churches and diaconia are increasingly aware of this issue.

The borders between European states have been opened, but new barriers at the outer borders of the European community have come into being. Many people enjoy the opportunity for mobility. Awareness of and openness towards co-operation on border crossing have not grown to the same degree. This may be the reason for social tensions.

- Social and economic inequality:

Social and economic inequality is a leading cause of migratory movements, not only from outside Europe but also between the European regions. A balance is necessary, but can only be realised in the medium term.

People flee because of violations of basic rights. Prevention of conflicts and social tensions and promotion of justice and democracy is a priority task.

Not only racism and xenophobia, but also ethnic nationalism are rooted in many-sided situations such as social problems, lack of opportunity suffered by some persons, violent styles of education, uncertainty in times of historical changes and ideological manipulation.

Respect for human life and the dignity of every person is rooted in biblical tradition. The perception of woman and man as "made in the image of God" is taken from the first creation story in the Bible (Genesis 1, 26f). Inherited from this tradition, it has become an integral part of the major documents on human rights and in state constitutions. Christians in particular are sensitive and vigilant towards violations of human dignity.

In the Bible, foreigners enjoy God's special protection. "You shall not oppress a resident alien;. you know the heart of an alien, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt." (Ex. 23.9) Obedience to the law of God's people is put to the test by their treatment of foreigners and powerless persons. In accordance with the Jewish tradition of hospitality and the laws regarding aliens and integration, Jesus and his disciples created the universal Christian commandment to love one's neighbour.

- Reconciled diversity:

As a world-wide community the Church exists in diversity. The growing number of Christian migrants in our countries challenges us to create ecumenical "unity in reconciled diversity", which has to take into account the painful history of intolerance. The diversity of experiences of faith in the New Testament justifies our acknowledgement of the diversity of faiths and cultural traditions today. The Gospel teaches us that national and cultural borders are of less importance.

- Commitment to humanity and charity:

Promoting a culture of charity and humanity belongs to the basic tasks of churches and diaconal agencies in our societies. As migrants and refugees have no political voice, they depend on assistance and advocacy not only by professional services but also by many volunteers.

Churches and diaconal agencies can contribute to preventing people from being forced to leave their country. Promotion of social justice, the rights of minorities and the struggle against violations of human rights are the most pressing issues.

A basic attitude of openness and hospitality is needed in our countries. Christians can contribute greatly to such an attitude. Professional services for migrants should be enhanced, not reduced. Churches and diaconal agencies should stand up for migrants in political and public discussions and decision-making. Trafficking in human beings must be combated, and assistance must be offered to victims (see Final Document of the European Ecumenical Assembly, Graz 1997). Undocumented migrants are particularly in need of protection and help.

Sharing our daily life and work with immigrants should become a main task and be taken for granted, because integration prevents xenophobia. Activities such as Migrants' Days or Weeks and initiatives against racism and xenophobia must be continued and increased. The ecumenical "Decade to Overcome Violence" can also contribute to this objective. Churches and diaconal agencies should plead for national implementation of the EU legislation against discrimination. Ecumenical co-operation with Christians and churches from other countries should be strengthened.

Together with other NGOs, churches and diaconal organisations should monitor the implementation of European legislation on immigration and asylum. Talks with politicians should be continued, and awareness-building within and outside the churches should be a priority. Co-operation with central and eastern European countries especially should be developed and enhanced.

Joint positions on such European legislation call for:

> a common asylum law in line with the Geneva Refugee Convention,

> the right to family reunification,

>the common responsibility of European states for temporary protection of refugees from war and civil war, and

> legal protection of, and measures for legalising, undocumented migrants.