International Migrants Day, 18 December
International Migrants Day commemorated on 18 December each year gives us a special opportunity to shine a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of millions of migrants around the world. It's also a day for us to highlight the increasingly complex environment in which migration occurs. Conflicts, climate-related disasters and economic pressures continue to drive millions of people from their homes in search of safety or simply opportunity.
Date Posted:
17-Dec-2024
"We will open our hearts to the cries of the poor using our energies, gifts and resources to address violence and discrimination especially for ... displaced persons..." (Chapter Statement)
This past year, we saw record levels of internal displacement, rising humanitarian needs across ongoing and new crises, and, tragically, the highest-ever death toll of migrants in transit. Yet, alongside these challenges, are stories of resilience, progress and hope. Where safe and well-managed migration holds extraordinary potential. Migrants play critical roles in labour markets, filling skills gaps, driving innovation and entrepreneurship, and addressing demographic challenges in aging societies. Migrants boost economic growth and provide a lifeline to families and communities back home, driving development.
Since 2014, nearly 70,000 migrants have died or gone missing along land and sea routes, with the true number likely much higher. Each recorded death represents a person whose loss deeply affects their family and reverberates throughout communities and societies. This is a silent humanitarian crisis, and it’s one we can solve.
- Read the full report on Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration by the Secretary-General.
- Watch the video below to learn the key recommandations.