The question of simplification of immigration formalities was discussed this morning by the conference of non-governmental organizations interested in migration, meeting under the auspices of the United Nations and the International Labor Organization.
A series of proposals aimed at remedying some of the difficulties now found in migration procedures were set forth in a report entitled “simplification of formalities and reduction of costs for migrants,” prepared by one of the conference’s working parties.
The report presented today by Miss Ann S. Petluck, chairman of the working party, contains an analysis of the problem, followed by specific proposals designed to remove obstacles in emigration and transit formalities and immigration procedures, and by international migration agreements.
Divergent views were expressed this morning with regard to the basic philosophy underlying the report. The differences centered on whether the non-governmental organizations should merely make recommendations within the framework of existing immigration laws, or whether they had a responsibility to criticize these laws and recommend changes. However, there was no difference of opinion about the need for improvement in this field.
It was also pointed out that thus far in the conference and in the working papers submitted little or no attention had been given to the problem of migrants outside of Europe. It was suggested that a special working party be set up to discuss specific migration problems of the Middle East.
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