Sir,
(i)
E/CN.4/15603
In accordance with paragraph 7 of Resolution 29 (XXXVII) of your Commission, I have the honour to submit herewith the Study on Massive Exoduses and Human Rights.
It is a modest attempt at dealing succinctly with a colossal and increasingly complex problem. The phenomenon of mass exodus, which is becoming a tragically permanent feature of our times, owes its existence to a variety of aspects inherent in contemporary society, each of which calls for an independent and detailed study of its own. The problem is bound to become more serious with time unless imaginative and concrete measures are urgently taken to contain, if not avert, situations of mass exodus. A prerequisite for such measures is the political will of governments, translated into reality at global level.
If the present Study serves only to increase the awareness of the problem by governments and the general public, and provides an incentive for the matter to be further analysed, it will not have been in vain. It is, however, my considered opinion that if we are to succeed in any measure to spare future generations the spectre of millions of uprooted people, more is required than reports and resolutions, however perti- nent and useful they may be.
In concluding, I am reminded of what George Bernanos wrote in one of his essays,
not
"A thought which does not result in an action is nothing much, and an action which does proceed from a thought is nothing at all."
Accept, Sir, the assurances of my highest consideration.
Sadruddin Agakhan.
His Excellency
Mr. Carlos Callero Rodrigues
Ambassador
Chairman, Commission on Human Rights United Nations Office at Geneva
Palais des Nations
1211 Geneva 10
Sadruddin Aga Khan
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