Migration an inevitable human reality, even with all its challenges

The second United Nations International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) took place from May 5 to 8 at UN headquarters in New York, drawing governments worldwide to assess progress on migration challenges. Delegates adopted a Progress Declaration, reaffirming their commitment to the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) and outlining priorities such as labor rights, legal identity for migrants, safe migration pathways, and life-saving measures along key routes. The forum underscored the global nature of migration, with most nations serving as origin, transit, or destination countries simultaneously. UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock emphasized that migration is an ‘inevitable human reality,’ requiring international cooperation and regulation rather than isolationist policies. She noted that no single state can address migration alone, framing the GCM as essential to multilateral solutions. Director General Amy Pope of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) reinforced that sovereign states retain control over migration policies while migrants deserve dignity, stating these goals are not mutually exclusive when countries collaborate. The IMRF included a pre-plenary multi-stakeholder hearing with migrants, civil society, diaspora groups, and UN partners, reflecting the GCM’s ‘whole-of-society’ approach. Over four days, participants engaged in roundtables and policy discussions, informed by local, national, and regional consultations. Governments and UN entities are increasing financial pledges to improve labor conditions, expand digital civil registration, and support displaced populations. The forum highlighted real-world examples, such as Jamaican diaspora communities, which have historically migrated for economic opportunity while strengthening global ties. Despite progress, challenges persist, including immigration crackdowns in the U.S. and Europe, where anti-immigration sentiment is rising. The IMRF reaffirmed that migration remains a critical global issue demanding coordinated action, with the GCM serving as a framework for balancing national sovereignty with migrant rights.