International Migrants Day: Every year, December 18th marks the celebration of International Migrants Day. It is a day when the efforts, struggles, and rights of all the migrants across the globe are acknowledged. The day throws light on the impact that migration has on the economy, society, and culture of the countries.
History and Origins
The United Nations General Assembly has recognised December 18th as the International Migrants Day since the year 2000 in reaction to the growing number of migrants globally and the complexity associated with contemporary human mobility.
It also commemorates the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families adopted in 1990, its relevance to migrant rights cannot be overemphasised.
Significance of the Day
International Migrants Day has the following major purposes:
Contribution recognition: International migrants contribute significantly in terms of their involvement in the workforce, innovation, entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural interaction in host countries worldwide.
Emphasising challenges: Migration is associated with difficulties, such as displacement resulting from conflict, extreme weather, economics, and dangers of not taking safe routes.
Campaign for rights: The day reminds governments, international bodies, and societies to advocate for rights, facilitate safe routes, and promote inclusion for migrants.
Migrants not only add to the economy but also help strengthen the fabric of society, in turn helping to resolve demographic issues and increasing cultural diversity.
2025 Theme: “My Great Story: Cultures and Development”
The theme of the 2025 observance of International Migrants Day is “My Great Story: Cultures and Development.” This year’s theme celebrates how international migration contributes to a diversified culture, economic development, and community resilience. The theme is in honour of the stories of international migrants who make up a great story.
The theme emphasises the fact that migration is not merely the movement of individuals but a dynamic factor of cultural linkage and development.
GLOBAL REFLECTION AND CALL TO ACTION
International organisations like the United Nations, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and the World Health Organization (WHO) mark this day to promote the following:
- “Safe and orderly” migration channels
- This can access to healthcare and rights for migrants
- Human rights and dignity policies
These are planned to ensure that a conducive environment is provided for migrants to flourish without any form of discrimination, meaning that they are able to fully integrate into the host society.
International Migration Day has became more than just another day in the calendar – it has become an international reminder of the existence of millions of lives affected in one way or another by migration, the economic and cultural relevance they represent, and, most importantly, the imperative demand for adequate policies in order to guarantee rights and dignity. Not to mention the increase in connectivity in this world, it encourages all to create societies that remain inclusive with regard to every migrant’s path.
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