When presenting his second report on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration to the General Assembly, the highest representative of the United Nations indicated that the mobility of people is a phenomenon that enriches societies and economies.

But if poorly managed, it creates huge challenges “from the tragic loss of life, to rights abuses and social tensions,” he stressed.

In this sense, the minister pointed out, the effective management of migration and the protection of their rights requires strengthened international cooperation.

Guterres offered a series of recommendations for this and as a first point, he referred to the need to promote inclusive societies and not exclude migrants and refugees in response and recovery efforts to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Often, lamented the UN Secretary General, people on the move are denied access to basic services.

Many also experience growing stigmatization, racism and xenophobia, while migrant women and children face increased risks of trafficking, along with gender-based violence, abuse and exploitation, the Portuguese diplomat warned.

The only way to break the rule of smugglers and traffickers is to establish pathways for regular migration in close cooperation between countries of origin and destination, the minister insisted.

According to UN figures, in the last seven years there have been about 50,000 deaths of migrants around the world, although the real statistics must be higher.

Approved three years ago, the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration reflects the commitment of the international community to improve such human flows in a dignified manner and without danger to human life.

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