Equally, the right to emigrate exists. This right, Bl. John XXIII recalls in the Encyclical Mater et Magistra, is based on the universal destination of the goods of this world (cf. nn. 30 and 33). It is obviously the task of Governments to regulate the migratory flows with full respect for the dignity of the persons and for their families' needs, mindful of the requirements of the host societies. In this regard, international Agreements already exist to protect would-be emigrants, as well as those who seek refuge or political asylum in another country. There is always room to improve these agreements.
Message of the Holy Father John Paul II for the 90th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, 2004 #3
If the "dream" of a peaceful world is shared by all, if the refugees' and migrants' contribution is properly evaluated, then humanity can become more and more of a universal family and our earth a true "common home".
Message of the Holy Father John Paul II for the 90th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, 2004 #6
Every human being has the right to freedom of movement and of residence with the confines of his own state. When there are just reasons in favor or it, he must be permitted to emigrate to other countries and to take up residence there. The fact that he is a citizen of a particular state does not deprive him of membership in the human family, nor the citizenship in that universal society, the common, world-wide fellowship of women and men.
Pacem in Terris, #25
Among man’s personal rights, we must include his right to enter a country in which he hopes to be able to provide more fittingly for himself and his dependents. It is therefore the duty of the state officials to accept immigrants and—so far as the good of their own community, rightly understood permits, to further the aims of those who may wish to become members of a new society.
Pacem in Terris, #106
When workers come from another country or district and contribute to the economic advancement of a nation or region by their labor, all discrimination as regards wages and working conditions must be carefully avoided…..public authorities must help them bring their families to live with them and to provide decent dwelling…and incorporated into the social life of the country or region
Gaudium et Spes, 66.1
….permanent or seasonal workers should not be placed at a disadvantage in comparison with other workers in that society…the need for work should not be an opportunity for financial or social exploitation.
Laborem Exercens
Recommit as a church to work so that every person’s dignity is respected, the immigrant is welcomed as a brother or sister and all humanity forms a united family which knows how to appreciate with discernment the different cultures which comprise it. We call upon all people of good will, but Catholics especially to welcome the newcomers in their neighborhoods and schools, in their places of work and worship with heartfelt hospitality, openness and eagerness.
Welcoming the Stranger Among Us: Unity in Diversity, Statement of the U.S. Catholic Bishops:2001
In solidarity, we will continue to advocate on your behalf for just and fair migration policies. We commit ourselves to animate communities of Christ’s disciples on both sides of the border so that yours is a journey of hope, not despair…..
Strangers No Longer: Together on the Journey, US Catholic Bishops and Conference of Mexican Bishops, 2003.
