By Anjali Sharma
UNITED NATIONS – UN reported on Wednesday that migration patterns continue to be shaped by conflicts, climate disasters, and economic pressures, 2024 was the record levels of internal displacement, as it marked International Migrants Day.
The year also saw the highest death toll of migrants in transit, UN stated.
UN chief Antonio Guterres said “These challenges are made worse by the rising tide of mis- and disinformation and hate speech which sows division and distorts the valuable contributions migrants are making each and every day.
He said that the potential of safe and well-managed migration remains clear, as migrants boost economies, address labour shortages in aging societies and drive innovation globally.
The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration third report underscores the urgency of addressing migrant safety. Since 2014, nearly 70,000 migrants have died or gone missing, with the true numbers likely higher.
The report calls for stronger international cooperation to prevent migrant deaths, enhance identification efforts, and support affected families.
The issue of migrant smuggling continues to pose severe risks.
According to the UN Office on Drugs and Crime smugglers exploit barriers to legal migration, profiting from the desperation of those fleeing conflict or poverty.
UN Protocol against Smuggling of Migrants serves as the primary legal framework to combat this crime. The efforts by UNODC include supporting countries to implement the protocol, prosecute smugglers, and protect migrants’ rights.
UN Committees stressed the urgent need to address the compounded challenges faced by migrants with disabilities, often overlooked by available policies and services.
UN said that as migration remains a global reality, these initiatives emphasise the need for collective action to create pathways that prioritise safety and opportunity.
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