In observance of International Migrants Day, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on the world to reaffirm its commitment to the dignity, safety, and future of millions who journey across borders in search of better lives. His message, delivered from UN Headquarters, underscored the urgent need to uphold human rights while dismantling the biases and falsehoods often directed at people on the move.
While the immense social, cultural, and economic benefits of migration are widely recognized—from diversifying the workforce to enriching community life—Guterres emphasized that these positive contributions are too often overshadowed by divisive narratives. Misinformation, hate speech, and harmful stereotypes, he noted, pose serious obstacles to creating environments where newcomers can thrive. The Secretary-General urged leaders, educators, media outlets, and civil society groups to work together in debunking myths and ensuring that migrants are seen as neighbors, colleagues, and contributors, rather than scapegoats.
A key part of this vision involves reinforcing the frameworks already in place. Guterres highlighted the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, adopted six years ago, as an essential guideline for protecting individuals throughout their journeys. He stressed that expanding fair and rights-based pathways helps not only migrants, but also societies seeking sustainable growth and stability.
On this International Migrants Day, the Secretary-General’s rallying cry is clear: the world must invest in accurate information, foster welcoming communities, and strengthen mechanisms that protect migrants every step of the way. By doing so, countries can cultivate trust, promote understanding, and ensure that crossing a border is not just a movement from one place to another, but a journey toward a shared future where everyone’s contributions are respected and valued.
