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'Zimbabwe, SA facing migration challenges'
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Human trafficking and undocumented migration present significant challenges in managing migration and protecting the rights of migrants, according to United Nations (UN) Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Edward Kallon. Kallon made these remarks during the International Migrants Day commemorations held in Harare on Tuesday.
"This occasion not only celebrates the resilience and determination of migrants worldwide, but also highlights the significant role local communities and civil societies play in facilitating their integration, combating stigmatisation, and fostering environments where migrants' contributions are valued," Kallon said. "This aligns with this year's theme, ‘Every Step — Facilitating Regular Migration Pathways.'"
Globally, over 281 million people are migrants, enriching societies both economically and culturally, Kallon noted. He acknowledged the critical role of migrants in local economies, particularly through remittances, which support families and contribute to community growth.
"Zimbabwe and the southern African region face migration challenges driven by economic strain and climate change, prompting individuals to seek better prospects," he explained. "Conversely, these movements also present opportunities, such as the economic contributions from remittances, which stimulate local economies."
Kallon emphasized the need for robust data collection to inform effective migration policies, as well as partnerships with governments, civil society organizations, and international allies to enhance efforts in managing migration. "Migration enhances cultural diversity and helps address labour shortages, making migrants integral to economic development," he said.
However, Kallon underscored the urgent need to address issues such as undocumented migration, human trafficking, and xenophobia, all of which undermine the potential benefits of migration. "We must focus on data collection to inform more effective policies and strengthen global cooperation," he added.
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including government officials, diplomats, and members of civil society organizations, all of whom gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to migration. The day served as a platform for raising awareness of the need for more sustainable and inclusive migration policies.
"This occasion not only celebrates the resilience and determination of migrants worldwide, but also highlights the significant role local communities and civil societies play in facilitating their integration, combating stigmatisation, and fostering environments where migrants' contributions are valued," Kallon said. "This aligns with this year's theme, ‘Every Step — Facilitating Regular Migration Pathways.'"
Globally, over 281 million people are migrants, enriching societies both economically and culturally, Kallon noted. He acknowledged the critical role of migrants in local economies, particularly through remittances, which support families and contribute to community growth.
"Zimbabwe and the southern African region face migration challenges driven by economic strain and climate change, prompting individuals to seek better prospects," he explained. "Conversely, these movements also present opportunities, such as the economic contributions from remittances, which stimulate local economies."
Kallon emphasized the need for robust data collection to inform effective migration policies, as well as partnerships with governments, civil society organizations, and international allies to enhance efforts in managing migration. "Migration enhances cultural diversity and helps address labour shortages, making migrants integral to economic development," he said.
However, Kallon underscored the urgent need to address issues such as undocumented migration, human trafficking, and xenophobia, all of which undermine the potential benefits of migration. "We must focus on data collection to inform more effective policies and strengthen global cooperation," he added.
The event was attended by various stakeholders, including government officials, diplomats, and members of civil society organizations, all of whom gathered to discuss the challenges and opportunities related to migration. The day served as a platform for raising awareness of the need for more sustainable and inclusive migration policies.
Source - newsday
