In 1997,
Filipino and Asian migrant organisations began celebrating and promoting 18
December as the International Day of Solidarity with Migrants. This date was chosen
because it was on
The day is an opportunity to recognize the contributions
made by millions of immigrants to the development and well-being of so many
countries in the world, and to promote respect for the rights of immigrant
workers and their families.
Immigrants
are often perceived as criminals, economic burdens, security threats and even
risks to public health. Negative views about immigrants shape government policy
and action on immigration around the world, often resulting in limited or no
protection for immigrant workers and their families. The Migrant Workers
Convention aims to guarantee the highest possible level of protection for the
rights of migrant workers and their families.
Some migrants do not have permission to enter their
new country and they live and work as undocumented immigrants. In the
Undocumented immigrants often live in the shadows and
are at heightened risk of exploitation, discrimination and abuse. They are
often denied the right to health and housing services and live and work in
degrading conditions. Those who commit abuses against immigrants know that they
are unlikely to be held accountable because undocumented immigrants are often
reluctant to turn to the authorities, fearing that they will be arrested or
deported for coming forward.
The way immigration
issues are presented by politicians, public officials and the media has a
significant impact on public perceptions of immigrants and their rights. Much
of the public debate about immigration has been framed around issues of
national security and the economy rather than the rights and contributions of
immigrants.
Although governments have the authority to determine
immigration policies, this authority cannot be exercised in a manner that
perpetuates the marginalization of millions of immigrants and denies them the
most basic protections due specifically to their status as non-nationals.
Immigration is a phenomenon, not a problem, and
therefore requires not a one-time solution, but sound management and safeguards
upholding the human rights and dignity of all immigrants.
Links
Documents on International
Migration from the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs.
Stamp catalogue - 2007
Bangladesh
last revised: