International Migrants Day: Celebration of human mobility, resilience
International Migrants Day, observed annually on December 18, recognises the significant contributions of migrants worldwide while advocating for their rights and dignity. Established by the United Nations in 2000, this day highlights the value of migration in fostering global development, enhancing cultural diversity and driving innovation. It also underscores the challenges migrants face, such as displacement, discrimination and lack of access to basic rights and services.
Migration is a defining feature of human history, rooted in the search for better opportunities, safety and livelihoods. Today, over 280 million people live outside their countries of origin, constituting nearly 3.6% of the global population. This phenomenon is fuelled by economic disparities, conflicts, climate change and the quest for better education and employment. Migrants not only contribute to the economies of their host countries through labour, skills and taxes but also support their home countries by sending remittances. In 2023, global remittances exceeded $700 billion, playing a critical role in poverty reduction and socio-economic development.
While migration enriches societies, it often comes at a cost to the migrants themselves. Many face precarious conditions, including exploitation, xenophobia and barriers to social integration. Irregular migrants, refugees and internally displaced persons are particularly vulnerable, enduring hardships such as dangerous journeys, detention and inadequate legal protections. In response, International Migrants Day serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address these challenges and uphold the rights enshrined in international frameworks like the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration.
The day also emphasises the power of migration to promote unity in diversity. Migrants bring with them unique perspectives, skills and cultures that enrich their new communities. From cuisine and arts to science and technology, their contributions shape societies in profound ways. For instance, many tech leaders, artists and innovators around the world are migrants or descendants of migrants, showcasing the transformative potential of human mobility.
This year's theme, "Harnessing the Potential of Human Mobility," calls on governments, organisations and individuals to recognise migration as a driver of resilience and prosperity. Policies that promote inclusion, equal opportunities and integration are crucial in ensuring that migrants can contribute fully to society while maintaining their dignity. International cooperation, particularly in addressing root causes like poverty and conflict, is also vital for managing migration effectively.
On International Migrants Day, it is important to celebrate the courage and resilience of migrants who leave behind the familiar in pursuit of a better future. At the same time, it is a moment to reflect on our collective responsibility to create a world where migration is a choice, not a necessity and where every migrant is treated with dignity, respect and fairness. By fostering empathy and solidarity, this day reminds us that in an interconnected world, the well-being of migrants is inseparable from the progress of humanity as a whole.
