International Migrants Day 2020

Today is International Migrants Day. 

The total number of international migrants has increased from about 175 million in 2000 to more than 272 million in 2020, meaning migrants make up 3.5% of the global population.  

The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the role of international cooperation in the protection of migrants: 

“Migrants are integral members of society, contributing to mutual understanding and sustainable development in communities of both origin and destination. Safe, orderly, and regular migration is in the interest of all.” 

– António Guterres

Migrants are often victims of discrimination and violence. It’s time to flip the narrative and appreciate the courage and strength of those crossing borders. Keep reading to learn about International Migrants Day 2020. 

Who are Migrants?

There is no universally agreed upon definition for migrants in international law, but the International Organization for Migration defines the term migrant as, “reflecting the common lay understanding of a person who moves away from his or her place of usual residence, whether within a country or across an international border, temporarily or permanently, and for a variety of reasons.” 

One of the central protections afforded to refugees and asylum-seekers is the principle of non-refoulement. This principle protects individuals against involuntary return to a country where a refugee has reason to fear persecution. Unlike refugees or asylum-seekers, migrants are not universally afforded the protection of non-refoulement, making it important to consider how migrants are treated across different national and sub-national borders.

Origin of International Migrants Day

Every year, the United Nations showcases the contributions made by migrants across the world. The UN also uses the day to bring attention to the challenges that migrants face. 

This year, Dec. 18 marks the 30th anniversary of the 1990 International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. However, the day wasn’t celebrated immediately after the convention. 

In 1997, the International Organization for Migration in the Philippines started promoting Dec. 18 as an International Day of Solidarity with Migrants. The United Nations built on the initiative in the Philippines and began promoting the day worldwide. 

What Does Migration Look Like in 2020

The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been especially pronounced for vulnerable populations, including migrants. Not only has the pandemic made it more challenging for migrants to seek safety, but it has also created conditions of economic and physical insecurity that increase incentives to migrate. 

Border crossings have decreased because of restrictions on movement during the pandemic. but some of the major routes of migration are still active during this period. Migrants continue to cross the Mediterranean by boat to reach Europe from North Africa. Migrants also continue to cross the U.S. southern border as they travel from countries in Latin America.

Resources: 

Here are a few stories on migrants and refugees that Novel Hand featured this year: 

• Misconceptions About Immigration 
• What You Should Know on World Refugee Day
• Climate “Refugees” Explained
• The Impact of Language on Refugees
• Why Internally Displaced Persons Lack Protection        

Happy International Migrants Day!

This article was written by Sydney and Grace.