[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”3.25″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.14.7″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Excellencies,<\/p>\n
Distinguished delegates,<\/p>\n
I thank you for inviting me to participate in this timely event, to help prepare for and set the tone for the first International Migration Review Forum, which will take place from 17 to 20 May 2022, under the auspices of the General Assembly.<\/p>\n
As anticipated in the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, during this dialogue we will exchange views and reflect on our successes and failures in implementing its provisions.<\/p>\n
By doing so we also fulfil our responsibility outlined in the modalities resolution of the forum.<\/p>\n
This resolution invites the International Dialogue for Migration to, and I quote, \u201ccontribute to the International Migration Review Forum by providing relevant data, evidence, best practices, innovative approaches and recommendations as they relate to the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.\u201d<\/p>\n
Throughout our conversation, let us recall that the adoption of the Compact was a historic opportunity to shape a new global framework for migration. That choice stemmed for our common conviction that through international cooperation we can manage global migration in a manner that is effective, just, humane, and beneficial to migrant communities and host countries alike.<\/p>\n
To that end, we have made commendable strides in the past three years, despite the challenges of COVID-19.<\/p>\n
Yet our successes remain fragile, and we must solidify and build upon them. Much work remains to be done and our concerted action is needed.<\/p>\n
The tasks before us are plenty: addressing unregulated migration; building inclusive societies; rescuing lives and protecting the most vulnerable; and expanding social protections to cover migrants, including by providing them access to healthcare and vaccination, to name a few.<\/p>\n
As we prepare to engage on these topics, I acknowledge and applaud that this International Migration Dialogue is aligned with the priorities set by the United Nations Secretary-General in his report on the progress on the implementation of the Global Compact. I will be eager to receive the outcomes of this Dialogue.<\/p>\n
Dear Colleagues,<\/p>\n
Migration is a key feature of a more interconnected world. Despite significant concerns about its economic and social implications, the movement of people across the world\u2019s borders boosts global productivity.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s often been seen that the countries that prioritize integration stand to make the most of this potential, improving outcomes for their own economies and societies as well as for immigrants themselves.<\/p>\n
Today, we will discuss some of the most pressing issues pertinent to migrants and migration, including combatting the rapid growth of migrant smuggling and human trafficking networks; the new challenges in addressing inclusion; and the positive role of remittances in alleviating financial burdens.<\/p>\n
I urge the participants to build on this dialogue, and to use the intervening time between now and the IMRF to listen and prepare.<\/p>\n
Through robust communication policies we must set a positive narrative and combat the increasing stigmatization, racism and xenophobia that increasing numbers of migrants endure.<\/p>\n
We must urge countries to move beyond words and implement comprehensive, effective, and humane migrant policies in practice<\/em>. These policies must be aligned with our broader vision of facilitating planned, safe, and regular pathways for migration, while offering protection to those who need it.<\/p>\n We must call on policymakers to recognize and value the role migrant workers play. They are entitled to compensation for their work, to protection without discrimination, and to key social services in countries of origin and destination.<\/p>\n And we must call on states and stakeholders to act with trust and solidarity to implement migration policies that are aligned with the global compact, as part of our efforts to recover better, meet the sustainable development goals, and usher in a brighter, safer future for everyone.<\/p>\n I thank you and wish you all a very productive discussion.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Briefing on the \u201cFirst Session of the International Dialogue on Migration 2022″: Report of the Secretary-General<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":353,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":" Excellencies, colleagues,<\/p> I welcome you all to our second meeting and our first interaction following the resumed part of the session.<\/p> Before I begin, I would like to recognize the loss of our dear friend and esteemed colleague, Ms. Gail Farngalo.<\/p> A Liberian national, Gail was my Team Leader for Human Rights and was active on gender during both the 75th<\/sup> and 76th<\/sup> sessions. She leaves behind a legacy of achievements and a groundswell of respect and affection from across the Ä¢¹½ÊÓƵ and diplomatic communities. Her presence is certainly felt here today.<\/p> Colleagues,<\/p> When I took on this Presidency of Hope, I pledged to make gender equality a priority area for the 76th<\/sup> session. I continue to look to the board for its wisdom and expertise, as I endeavour to fulfil that pledge.<\/p> In this regard, I have already benefited from the board\u2019s advice, from when we met on October 28th<\/sup> last year.<\/p> Acting on that advice, I committed to ensuring that all my five rays of hope, and all my major initiatives, are approached with a gender lens.<\/p> I made sure that the composition of my office is gender-balanced.<\/p> I have committed to participating only in panels that have equal gender representation.<\/p> Throughout my official interactions and travels, I have endeavoured to meet with women, including heads of states and governments, scientists, civil society representatives, and youth.<\/p> And I am proud to inform you that five young women have been recruited into the Fellowship for HOPE<\/em> that my office recently launched. The Fellowship as you are well aware is targeted at benefiting young diplomats from underrepresented countries, pursuing careers in diplomacy or public service.<\/p> Colleagues,<\/p> While recognizing that we have a long way to go in the battle for gender-equality, I am proud of what my team has been able to accomplish within the past few months.<\/p> Our work continues.<\/p> We will continue to raise our voices on issues disproportionately impacting women, such as domestic violence and work place harassment. We will continue to push the importance of gender-equal work spaces.<\/p> And we will continue to find new paths to empower young women with ambitious professional aspirations.<\/p> Now is not the time to rest on our laurels.<\/p> With the board\u2019s guidance and support, we must use the many opportunities over the coming months to further empower women and girls, and dismantle discriminatory practices against them.<\/p> There are several upcoming events that will provide us such opportunities. I look forward to the board\u2019s suggestions on how we can best utilize them.<\/p> As an example, the International Day of Women and Girls in science is fast approaching. We must recognize that women\u2019s contributions in science and technology have helped us cure diseases; discover new horizons in space; and develop technologies that have vastly improved our quality of life.<\/p> As we celebrate their achievements, we must also open pathways for young girls who aspire to follow in the footsteps of pioneers in science and technology.<\/p> Colleagues,<\/p> Let us also reflect that the theme chosen by the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women for this year is on \u201cachieving gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls in the context of climate change, environmental and disaster risk reduction policies and programmes\u201d.<\/p> As we strive to meet our obligations to the planet, let us recognize the important work done by women and girls at the forefront of the climate crisis, and whose humanitarian work in disaster-stricken areas has helped save lives and rebuild communities. We owe it to them to not only celebrate their work but to support them.<\/p> Colleagues,<\/p> Our programme of work for the months ahead has been circulated to members prior to the meeting, for consideration and feedback. Please note that the events we have planned are not exhaustive. I welcome further suggestions from the board on the content and format of future events and activities.<\/p> Colleagues,<\/p> We have made much progress within a short while. And with the board\u2019s support and guidance, I am sure that we can keep up this strong momentum.<\/p> I look forward to working alongside all of you to achieve our vision of a gender-equal world.<\/p> Thank you.<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[111],"tags":[550,689,686,683,487,556,553],"committee-meeting":[],"class_list":["post-258524","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-speeches","tag-ga","tag-gcm","tag-global-compact-on-migration","tag-imrf","tag-migration","tag-pga","tag-shahid","et-doesnt-have-format-content","et_post_format-et-post-format-standard"],"yoast_head":"\n