Forty years of unwavering dedication. That’s the legacy of the Comisiu00f3n Espau00f1ola de Ayuda al Refugiado right here before us. Established on July 30 1979 CEAR began its mission to defend the rights of refugees displaced persons and migrants. These individuals faced the risks of social exclusion or vulnerability. CEAR’s founding was a momentous occasion. It marked a turning point for vulnerable populations in Spain.
Imagine the clandestine work of the early years. A group including Joaquu00edn Ruiz Gimu00e9nez Juan Josu00e9 Rodru00edguez Ugarte Maru00eda Jesu00fas Arsuaga and Carmen de Victory secretly aided refugees. This was during Spain’s transition a period of significant political and social change. The arrival of refugees from countries like Uruguay Chile and Argentina increased dramatically. These individuals fled dictatorships that suppressed freedoms and systematically violated human rights.
The 1980s saw CEAR’s active participation in establishing Spain’s first asylum law in 1984. A collaboration with the central administration began. This partnership continues to this day. The organization expanded its reach. It opened centers in Mu00e1laga and Las Palmas. Today CEAR manages hundreds of places in various cities including Getafe which houses Spain’s largest refugee center. CEAR also established its territorial delegations. These provide services to refugees at a local level. This happened with the cooperation of regional and municipal authorities.
In 1988 CEAR launched the Refugee Support Council. Queen Sofu00eda presided over the council. The UNHCR participated as well as businessmen lawyers and cultural figures. Marcelino Camacho then president of Comisiones Obreras was involved. The council promoted and funded cooperation programs for refugees in developing countries. CEAR expanded its work beyond Spain’s borders. It intervened in Guatemala the Middle East and the Sahara. CEAR supported those displaced by floods in Mozambique and victims of the Rwandan genocide.
The 1990s brought further milestones. Juan Maru00eda Bandru00e9s’s presidency saw the successful relocation of over 2500 Bosnian refugees. This happened during the Balkan War. The effort mobilized substantial civil society solidarity. The Spanish government established the Asylum and Refuge Office (OAR). This office assesses asylum applications in Spain. In 1997 the CEAR Foundation was created. Adolfo Suu00e1rez a former Spanish Prime Minister chaired it.
The 21st century finds CEAR focused on ensuring international protection for those fleeing conflict or persecution. The organization has denounced European migration policies that prevent safe legal passage. They call attention to the Mediterranean route where over 38000 migrants have died this century. CEAR’s work played a significant role. It ensured gender and sexual orientation based persecution was recognized as grounds for international protection in Spanish legislation.
The Comisiu00f3n Espau00f1ola de Ayuda al Refugiado continues to advocate for humane treatment and just policies. It deserves recognition for its enduring commitment to those seeking refuge. The story of CEAR is one of resilience determination and unwavering hope. This is a beacon of compassion in the heart of Madrid a testament to the power of human solidarity.