According to the text, the AU is closely following the developments between Ukraine and Russia, and is particularly disturbed by reports that African citizens are being refused the right to cross the border to safety.

All people have the right to cross international borders during a conflict and, as such, should enjoy the same rights to cross to safety from the conflict in Ukraine, notwithstanding their nationality or racial identity, the communique adds.

Reports that African citizens are singled out for unacceptable dissimilar treatments, would be shockingly racist and in breach international law, underlines the communique signed by current Chair of the AU and President of the Republic of Senegal, Macky Sall, and Chairperson of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat.

It also urges the international community “to respect the law and show the same empathy and support to all people fleeing war, notwithstanding their race.”

It also commends “the efforts by the AU member countries and their embassies in neighboring countries to receive and orientate African citizens and their families trying to cross the Ukrainian border to safety.”

pgh/iff/acl/raj