Context
The International Migrants Day is observed globally on 18 December every year. The day is marked by the United Nations, through the UN-related agency International Organization for Migration (IOM).
Background
- On 18 December 1990, the UN General Assembly acquired a resolution on the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families, to recognize the contributions made by millions of migrants to the economies of their host and home countries and promote respect for their basic human rights.
- The day was firstly observed in
- Also, in 1997, Filipino and other Asian migrant organizations began celebrating and promoting 18 December as the International Day of Solidarity with Migrants.
- The day is observed to highlight the contributions made by the 272 million migrants, which includes more than 41 million people who are internally displaced persons, and the challenges they face.
Theme
- The theme of International Migrants Day 2021 is ‘Harnessing the Potential of Human Mobility’.
- This years’ theme of International Migrants Day acknowledges the contribution made by migrants of their knowledge, skills, and networks to build more resilient and stronger communities.
Significance
- International Migrants Day 2021 is an affirmation that throughout human history, migration has been a step of courage and expression of an individual’s will to overcome adversity to live a better life.
- The day plays a significant role in determining the movement of individuals because of forced or voluntary movements for environmental issues such as poverty or disaster.
- In today’s world, migration draws increasing attention particularly. Migration day signifies that the difficulties and challenges faced by migrants require cooperation and collective action from countries around the world.
