“Migration is not just a statistic; it is the lived experience of women, men and children, each with their own identities and vulnerabilities – pursuing better lives and opportunities. But Throughout their journey, they face violence, hardship, and unimaginable risks,” said Amina J. Mohammed, speaking at an informal meeting of the General Assembly on the subject.
Last year was the bloodiest year for migrants. Nearly 8,600 deaths were recorded along migration routes, bringing the total number of deaths recorded since 2014 to nearly 70,000 and many others are yet to be taken into account.
At the same time, xenophobia and anti-migrant sentiment are on the rise in society, putting women and girls at high risk of sexual and gender-based violence.
Potential for transformation
“This is not only inhumane but also counterproductiveMs. Mohammed said and emphasized that failure to manage migration issues comprehensively will undermine social justice and human rights, ultimately hindering sustainable development.
The Deputy Secretary-General emphasized the transformative potential of migration, saying that when managed well, it serves as an important driver of sustainable development, contributing to inclusive growth and social cohesion.
“The persistence of migrants in their search for a dignified life speaks to our common drive to find hope,” Ms. Mohammed said.
With nearly half a million Venezuelan citizens, Ecuador is home to the third largest population of Venezuelan migrants worldwide.
Action roadmap
Mentioned the Secretary General’s implementation of the Resolution Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), she called on member states to increase efforts to protect migrants and ensure justice.
These include strengthening search and rescue efforts on land and sea, promoting international cooperation among countries along migration routes, and supporting affected families with legal aid. , administrative or economic.
In addition, justice, accountability and reparations mechanisms must be strengthened to protect the rights of migrants, and data and forecasts improved to facilitate effective humanitarian responses. more effective.
“These recommendations are not abstract ideals – they are a realistic roadmap for actionMs. Mohammed emphasized, calling on member countries to commit to implementation before the next International Migration Review Forum in 2026.
Aligned with global goals
Director-General of the United Nations International Organization for Migration (IOM) And Coordinator belong to United Nations Network on Migration Amy Pope also spoke at the General Assembly, emphasizing the interconnected nature of the Global Compact’s goals, calling for a comprehensive approach that involves all stakeholders.
She highlighted a number of key achievements, including the new voluntary framework.
“After extensive consultation with states and other stakeholders, we now have a new voluntary framework to support governments in measuring their progress, developing policy-based evidence and adjust their policies accordingly.” [the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development]she said.
The new voluntary framework will promote greater accountability as well as help mainstream migration into national plans and innovative solutions around legal identity and safe pathways, she added.
Ms. Pope called on Member States to adopt these indicators in their national GCM assessments and turn actionable ideas into reality.
