Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration

Definition

The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration is a United Nations-led agreement aimed at enhancing international cooperation on migration issues. It seeks to address the challenges and opportunities of migration by establishing a framework to ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and respects the rights of all migrants. This compact emphasizes the importance of managing migration in a way that benefits both migrants and host communities while promoting social cohesion and development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Global Compact was adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 2018, marking a significant milestone in global migration governance.
2. It consists of 23 objectives that cover various aspects of migration, including safe pathways for migrants, preventing human trafficking, and promoting inclusive societies.
3. The Compact is not legally binding but serves as a guiding framework for countries to enhance their cooperation on migration issues.
4. One of the main goals is to ensure that migration is a positive force for development, benefiting both the individuals involved and the economies of countries of origin and destination.
5. The Compact encourages countries to share best practices and experiences in managing migration effectively, fostering collaboration at regional and global levels.

Review Questions

• How does the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration address the relationship between migration and development?
  • The Global Compact emphasizes that migration can be a powerful driver of development when managed properly. It encourages countries to recognize the contributions migrants make to their economies and communities. By establishing frameworks for safe pathways for migrants and ensuring their rights are respected, the Compact aims to maximize the benefits of migration for both migrants themselves and the societies they integrate into.
• Evaluate the significance of the Global Compact in relation to existing international legal frameworks on migration.
  • The Global Compact complements existing international legal frameworks by providing a comprehensive approach to migration governance. While not legally binding like treaties such as the Refugee Convention, it establishes common objectives that encourage states to work together in addressing challenges related to migration. This cooperation helps fill gaps in existing laws by promoting more humane and effective management of migration, which aligns with human rights principles.
• Assess how effective implementation of the Global Compact could influence diaspora communities around the world.
  • Effective implementation of the Global Compact has the potential to greatly benefit diaspora communities by creating conditions that support safe and regular migration processes. By addressing issues such as human trafficking, discrimination, and barriers to integration, diaspora members would experience improved social inclusion and access to resources in host countries. Additionally, promoting policies that encourage remittances can help enhance economic development in home countries, thereby strengthening ties between diaspora communities and their origins.

Related terms

International Organization for Migration (IOM): A UN agency that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants alike, playing a key role in implementing the Global Compact.

Refugee Convention: A key legal document that defines who is a refugee, their rights, and the legal obligations of states to protect them.

Diaspora: A group of people who have migrated from their homeland but maintain connections with their country of origin, influencing both local cultures and economies.