From indifference and aporophobia to hospitality: an anthropological reflection in the face of migration crisis

Nowadays, the migratory crisis acquires dramatic and universal contours. The suffering of millions of people is in contrast to indifference, closing of the people and hatred toward migrants and refugees. This acquires relevance for the Church and society with the firm and solidarity stance of Pope Francisco in defense of refugees and their rights. Among the causes of indifference and hatred of migrants and refugees we emphasize the aporophobia, or rejection to the poor, according to the philosopher Adela Cortina, and the existential insecurity, according to sociologist Zygmunt Bauman. In the Jewish-Christian tradition, the relationship with the migrant and refugee goes through hospitality. Faithful to this tradition, Francisco calls for new logic of development and a new attitude towards those who seek opportunities of life. In response to these calls, a hospitable spirituality should be, overcoming aporophobic feelings, listening and approaching horizons.