International Migrants Day– December 18, 2021

As we observe International Migrants Day on December 18, we contemplate the obstacles and problems dealt with by over 272 million migrants courageously building brand-new lives in every corner of the world. The reality of migration is more than just starting over. Migrants travel searching for security and chances that will permit them to reinvent themselves. Others are escaping from discrimination and prejudice. Host societies require to evolve and invite these communities for a better tomorrow.

HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS DAY
Migration has many aspects enforcing it on an international level. These stem from human needs for security, dignity, and peace. It is never ever a simple choice to leave home, especially when the journey ahead is extremely harmful and, sometimes, deadly.

Although the day was made official in the year 2000, the observance of this day goes as far back as the year 1997 when December 18 was marked as the day to campaign for the regard, rights, and security of migrants by several Asian migrant organizations.

On account of the ever-increasing number of migrants all over the world, on December 4, 2000, the United Nations General Assembly declared December 18 as the day for International Migrants. A decade prior to this, on the same day, the Assembly started the International Convention on the Security of the Rights of All Migrant Employees and Members of Their Households.

During the first-ever summit focused on large-scale movements of migrants and refugees on September 19, 2016, a fixed set of commitments– known as the New York Statement for Refugees and Migrants– was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly to enhance the security of such displaced persons. This declaration restates the essentiality of the international security program and promises by member states to improve the migration system for individuals on the move.

The U.N.’s 2030 Program for Sustainable Advancement likewise features migration-related objectives. These include access to education, which will cause better opportunities and a much better lifestyle.

INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS DAY TIMELINE
1965
Hart-Celler Act
The U.S. adopts a brand-new migration policy, which reunites immigrant households and offers choice to skilled workers.

1997
In Solidarity with Migrants
A network of Asian migrant organizations begins commemorating December 18 as the International Day of Uniformity with Migrants.

2012
First Syrian Refugee Camp
Following the beginning of the Syrian conflict, the first camp for refugees is established in Jordan.

2020
Flight
Households continue to flee violence and destruction in north-west Syria.

INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS DAY FAQS
What is an international migrant?
Properly defined by the UN, the meaning of an international long-term migrant is: “An individual who moves to a nation other than that of his/her normal house for a period of at least a year (12 months), so that the country of destination effectively becomes his or her new country of usual residence.”

What is international voluntary migration?
Voluntary migration is when an individual chooses to relocate for an opportunity, as opposed to forced migration– when an individual chooses to relocate out of fear for their safety.

What are the types of migration?
Human migration consists of the following types: internal migration, external migration, emigration, immigration, return migration, and seasonal migration.

HOW TO OBSERVE INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS DAY
Learn more about migrants
In today’s modern times, migrants and refugees still face a lot of difficulties settling into new places. Educate yourself on the problems they face and learn more about what the United Nations and other influential bodies are doing about it.

Read a story
Heartbreaking, humbling, and happy stories of immigrants are truly an eye-opener.

Make a donation
Humanitarian organizations are always accepting donations for the ongoing refugee crisis around the world. Every small contribution can reap great benefits for those it will go towards.

5 FACTS ABOUT REFUGEES
1% of the human race is displaced
With conflicts becoming more complex, global displacement is at an all-time high.

68% of all refugees come from only five countries
Syria has the largest refugee count in the world, followed by Venezuela, Afghanistan, Sudan, and Myanmar.

Drop-in arrivals to Europe
The number of refugees making their way to Europe has significantly decreased.

Approximately 95% of resettlement needs are unfulfilled
Resettlement requirements are not being met by host states, raising great urgency.

40% of refugees are children
An estimated 34 million children and young people have been displaced from their homes around the world.

WHY INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS DAY IS IMPORTANT
No one is left behind
Every human life is precious, and their dignity and rights must be safeguarded at all costs. Humanitarian efforts to ensure no migrant is left behind are crucial.

Doing our part
The migration crisis can hit any region at any time in the future. Everyone must play their part on an individual level to ensure the right mechanisms are in place to welcome migrants and refugees.

For humanity’s sake
Showing some humanity shouldn’t be limited to a designated day. Such annual observances really focus and highlight issues and challenges on a larger level through awareness generated by mainstream media and organizations.