Calls for humane and dignified approaches to migration management

Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage Minister, Kazembe Kazembe, has called for the adoption of alternative measures that prioritize the dignity and human rights of all individuals, regardless of their migration status. Speaking during a workshop on International Migration Day at Mana Resort in Harare last week, Kazembe emphasized that while migration is a complex global phenomenon requiring compassionate and comprehensive approaches, detention should only be used as a last resort in addressing migration-related offenses.

The minister stressed the importance of developing policies that uphold the dignity of migrants, stating that the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Migration must ensure that migration and development are effectively integrated into Zimbabwe's governance frameworks. He highlighted the need for coherence across policies, laws, and institutions, acknowledging the evolving challenges of migration trends, which include stranded individuals, undocumented migrants, asylum seekers, and vulnerable groups such as women and children.

Kazembe outlined the strides made by the Home Affairs Ministry, in collaboration with the Attorney General's office, to align legal instruments with Zimbabwe's Constitution, which broadly protects the rights of all citizens and migrants. He noted the establishment of the Gender-Based Violence Call Centre (GBCC) at Immigration Headquarters as a critical initiative to provide prompt assistance to migrants in vulnerable situations.

The minister also pointed to provisions within the Zimbabwe Immigration Act (Chapter 4:02) that allow detained migrants to contest their detention or challenge prohibition orders. He emphasized that all migrant detentions are subject to judicial oversight through the Taskforce on Criminal Justice chaired by High Court justices, ensuring accountability and preventing arbitrary detentions.

In adherence to the principle of non-detention of minors, the Public Service Ministry has played a pivotal role in providing shelter for children of detained migrants. This aligns with Zimbabwe's commitment as a United Nations member state to principles enshrined in the Global Compact on Migration (GCM). Although non-binding, the GCM has influenced Zimbabwe's National Migration Policy, resonating with the nation's broader development objectives.

Kazembe further highlighted advancements in technology to manage migration more effectively, including the ongoing implementation of the Online Border Management System. This system leverages tools such as the Passenger Name Record (PNR), Advance Passenger Information (API), and INTERPOL's i/24/7 platform to profile, screen, and monitor irregular migrants and prohibited individuals.

Despite these advancements, Kazembe acknowledged the need for continued efforts in protecting migrant rights, stating that the Immigration Department has developed Standard Operating Procedures to ensure due process in detention cases. Decisions to detain migrants are sanctioned only by senior immigration officers, reflecting the ministry's commitment to international best practices.

The workshop, held in commemoration of International Migration Day observed annually on December 10, provided a platform for Zimbabwe to learn from the experiences of other United Nations member states. It was graced by International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Director General, Amy Pope, who visited Zimbabwe last week.

Kazembe concluded by reaffirming the government's dedication to fostering safe, orderly, and regular migration while advocating for policies that advance the rights and dignity of all migrants.