What is International Migrants Day?

International Migrants Day, observed annually on December 18th, recognizes the contributions, rights, and challenges faced by migrants worldwide. This day was established by the United Nations General Assembly on December 4, 2000, in response to the increasing number of migrants in the world. It is a day to spread awareness about the social, economic, and cultural contributions of migrants to their host countries and their countries of origin, and to promote respect for their basic human rights.

History and Origin

The date, December 18th, was chosen to mark International Migrants Day because it commemorates the adoption of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families by the United Nations General Assembly in 1990. This convention set a standard for the treatment of migrant workers and their families and aimed to address the legal vacuum concerning the protection of their rights. The day serves to highlight the need for safe and humane migration policies and the importance of respecting the dignity of all migrants.

Who Celebrates International Migrants Day?

• International and Regional Organizations: Advocating for migrants’ rights and well-being.
• Migrant Communities: Sharing their experiences and celebrating their contributions to society.
• Human Rights and Advocacy Groups: Raising awareness about the challenges faced by migrants.
• Government Bodies: Engaging in policy-making and dialogue to improve migration governance.
• General Public: Participating in events and discussions to better understand migration issues.

Slogans and Themes

International Migrants Day is observed with themes of unity, diversity, and human rights. Slogans like “Migrants Are Us” and “Building Bridges, Not Walls” emphasize the shared humanity and the contributions of migrants, advocating for policies that respect their rights and dignity. The focus is on promoting a balanced narrative that recognizes both the benefits and challenges of migration.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors:

• No specific colors are associated with International Migrants Day; it varies based on cultural representations.

Symbols:

• Globe or World Map: Symbolizing the global nature of migration.
• Birds in Flight: Often used to represent migration and the crossing of borders.
• Open Hands or Olive Branches: Representing peace, welcome, and solidarity with migrants.

Patterns:

• Diverse Cultural Motifs: Reflecting the rich variety of migrant cultures.
• Images of Journeys: Depicting the movement and paths taken by migrants.
• Heart Symbols: Conveying compassion and empathy towards migrants.

Most Used Hashtags

• #InternationalMigrantsDay
• #MigrantsDay
• #MigrationMatters
• #MigrantsContribute
• #December18

How to Celebrate

• Participate in Events: Attend or organize events, webinars, or discussions focusing on migration issues.
• Educational Activities: Engage in or provide educational programs about the experiences and contributions of migrants.
• Support Migrant Services: Volunteer with or donate to organizations that provide services to migrants.
• Share Stories: Listen to and share stories of migrants to foster understanding and empathy.
• Advocacy and Awareness: Advocate for the rights of migrants and raise awareness about the challenges they face.

International Migrants Day is a reminder of the resilience, contributions, and rights of millions of migrants worldwide. It is a call to action for the global community to come together in solidarity and ensure that migration is safe, orderly, and humane.