Celebrating Journeys, Recognizing Contributions
International Migrants Day highlights each year the essential contribution of migrants to the economic, social, and cultural development of communities around the world. It also allows the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to emphasize the importance of human rights and to showcase the positive impacts of population movements.
A Global Reality That Continues to Grow
This observance is more relevant than ever: voluntary and forced migration continues to rise.
According to the latest data, 281 million people were living in 2021 in a country other than the one in which they were born—128 million more than in 1990. This is three times more than in 1970, reflecting the significant increase in global mobility.
The United Nations calls on states and civil society organizations to promote the fundamental freedoms of migrants and to develop national policies that ensure their safety while recognizing the positive contributions they bring to host societies.
Migration: Understanding Today’s Challenges
The IOM’s annual report outlines priority areas for action, including in countries affected by conflict such as Ukraine and Sudan. The report also provides:
- analyses on climate change and its effects on vulnerable populations
- information on the impact of deforestation on Indigenous women
- a series of video capsules created by young people from various countries, exploring migration, diversity, and social inclusion.
These resources help deepen our understanding of the complexity of migration dynamics and the importance of adopting a humane and inclusive approach.
SNJM Commitment
The Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM) adopted a corporate stand in 2017 in support of migrants and refugees. Since then, they have taken part in awareness initiatives and collaborated with various organizations to accompany and assist migrant persons.
👉 Watch a short video featuring a Syrian family now settled in Canada.
Source : OIM