International Migrants Day – 18 December 2024

18 December 2024

“A day set aside to recognise the important contribution of migrants while highlighting the
challenges they face.” (UN, 2002)

International Migrants Day aims to raise awareness of the experiences of migrants, their significant contributions to communities worldwide, and the challenges they face. It celebrates the diversity within migrant communities and promotes the protection of their human rights.

The UN Migration Agency (IOM) defines a migrant as:

“Any person who is moving or has moved across an international border or within a State away from his/her habitual place of residence, regardless of:

1. The person’s legal status;

2. Whether the movement is voluntary or involuntary;

3. The causes of the movement; or

4. The length of stay.”

People migrate for various reasons, including conflict, political instability, economic challenges, climate change, or simply the hope of a better future for themselves and their families.

Yet, despite their many contributions, migrants are often among the most marginalized in society, facing exploitation, abuse, discrimination, and limited access to essential services.

Why Recognize International Migrants Day?

1. Addressing Root Causes

Conflict, political instability, economic insecurity, and the effects of climate change continue to force millions of people to leave their homes.

2. Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Migrant workers are frequently found in temporary, informal, or unprotected jobs, making them vulnerable to exploitation, layoffs, and poor working conditions.

3. Promoting Inclusion

Migrants enrich societies with cultural diversity and help sustain economies by filling skills gaps, fostering innovation, and addressing demographic challenges in aging populations.

4. Zimbabwean Diaspora

Zimbabwe’s diaspora is a striking example, comprising over 5 million people—roughly 30% of the country’s population.

• The largest proportion, approximately 1.5 million, resides in South Africa.

• The second-largest population, around 128,000, lives in the United Kingdom.

These individuals not only support their host countries but also send crucial remittances back home, providing a lifeline to their families and contributing to local development.

The Benefits of Safe and Strategic Migration

When migration is managed effectively, it becomes a powerful force for good. Safe and regular migration pathways:

• Offer greater opportunities for migrants;

• Protect their rights;

• Foster economic growth and innovation in host countries; and

• Drive development in migrants’ countries of origin.

Evidence overwhelmingly supports the idea that migration, when handled with care, benefits both migrants and the communities they engage with.

A Call to Action

Migrants are more than their challenges; they are catalysts for change, growth, and diversity. On International Migrants Day, let us commit to:

• Celebrating their contributions;

• Advocating for their rights; and

• Creating inclusive systems that ensure migration is safe, orderly, and beneficial for all.

Together, one step at a time, we can build a world where the promise of migration is fully realized.

*About the author*

Tendai Christian Mapfumo is a UK based Zimbabwean Human Rights Activist. He is in the South Branch of the UK Chapter of Restoration of Human Rights (ROHR) Zimbabwe. He can be contacted by emailing christendai52@gmail.com