By Yusufu S. Bangura
Members of the high table
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Ministry of Employment, and the National Youth Commission, commemorated International Migrants Day on Friday, December 20, 2024, at Lac’s Villa, Riverside Drive, Freetown.
The event aimed to raise awareness of the challenges migrants face and to celebrate their resilience, resourcefulness, and contributions to national development.
In her opening address, IOM Officer-in-Charge Pauline Macharia emphasized the importance of the day in acknowledging the significant role migrants play in shaping economies and fostering development.
“International Migrants Day was established 20 years ago through a United Nations resolution to recognize migration’s pivotal role in human development and national growth. Migration, when well-managed, can be a powerful driver of economic and social progress,” Macharia stated.
She called on all stakeholders to ensure migration is conducted in a regular, safe, and orderly manner. “It is the responsibility of governments to protect the rights of migrants stranded in foreign countries and to facilitate their safe and humane return when needed,” she added.
Macharia also highlighted the need for migrants to utilize established legal pathways for migration, which ensure access to employment, education, and opportunities to reconnect with family. She underscored the theme of this year’s commemoration: celebrating the contributions of migrants to national development, particularly their economic impact on host countries.
“While migration often occurs under difficult circumstances, migrants frequently engage in activities that contribute to the economies of their host countries. It is vital to ensure their rights are respected, and they receive fair compensation for their work,” she emphasized.
Returning migrants present during the commemoration
The IOM official reiterated the organization’s mandate to support migrants, particularly those wishing to return home or who are stranded abroad, in a manner that is safe, humane, and respectful of their rights.
Macharia acknowledged the challenges Sierra Leoneans face, citing recent situations in Niger and Lebanon, which have necessitated the repatriation of many citizens. She praised the government, including the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Youth, the Ministry of Social Welfare, and other entities, for their ongoing support of migrant welfare and reintegration programs.
As part of the government’s “Big Five” development agenda, Macharia encouraged collective efforts to create employment opportunities and ensure the rights of migrants are protected.
“It is not a crime to migrate, especially when done through regular and established pathways. We must support migrants in their journey, whether they choose to stay, move, or return home,” she said.
Speakers from the Ministry of Youth Affairs, the Ministry of Employment, and other government bodies also shared their perspectives, reinforcing the importance of migration in national development and the need for collaboration in addressing migration challenges.
The commemoration concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to amplify migrant voices, protect their rights, and promote their contributions to society.
