International Migrants Day 2020
December 16th, 2020
As the world observes International Migrants Day on December 18, read a statement by Secretary-General of the United Nations António Guterres.
Secretary-General’s video message for the launch of the Report “From Promise to Action: The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration”
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen,
Two years ago, Member States came together in Marrakech and committed to a comprehensive framework for cooperating on international migration.
The report we are launching today describes how the Global Compact for Migration is taking root in promising ways.
The Compact reflects a growing global understanding of the great benefits of human mobility.
But it also recognizes that, if poorly managed, migration can generate huge challenges, from a tragic loss of life to rights abuses and social tensions.
COVID-19 has heightened those challenges and had negative effects on more than 2.7 million migrants, particularly on women and girls.
At the same time, we have seen new practices emerging to protect migrants during today’s upheaval.
Several countries extended residence and work permits. Others have regularized the status of undocumented migrants. Some States have pursued alternatives to immigration detention.
And while some States have suspended returns owing to unsafe conditions, others have made efforts to ensure that those returning or who have been deported are supported.
These initiatives need to be expanded. However, much more can and should be done. Read the full statement.
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Related keywords: COVID-19 and migration, From Promise to Action, international migrants day, migration compact, Orderly and Regular Migration, Safe
