December 18th marks International Migrants Day every year. This day is dedicated to acknowledging the contributions of migrants worldwide and raising awareness about their challenges. It is a time to reflect on the journeys of millions who leave home searching for better opportunities and acknowledge the resilience and diversity they bring to communities worldwide.

Reasons why people emigrate

Migration is an undisputed universal phenomenon enacted through various factors:

• Economic opportunities: Most immigrants migrate to and settle for higher-paying jobs, better compensation or living conditions.
• Education: Students can cross borders to countries to gain quality education and expand their environment.
• Safety and Security: Conflicts, wars, and persecution make millions seek refuge in far-off, safe countries with asylum or refugee status.
• Family reunification: It also promotes family reunification as migrants move abroad to join already-settled members of their families.
• Climate Change: Natural disasters and environmental degradation increasingly push people to migrate for survival.

These motivations prove that migration was not about crossing borders but survival, ambition, and a better future.

Contributions from Migrants

Migrants play a great role in host countries' economic, social, and cultural development. They enhance the fabric of society with new skills, ideas, and perspectives.

• Economic Growth: They fill labour gaps, create businesses, and stimulate innovation. Their remittances often boost economies in source countries.
• Cultural Exchange: It involved a mosaic of cultures by introducing new cuisines, art forms, languages, and traditions that bred inter-understanding.
• Social Contributions: Most migrants work in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture, supporting the critical infrastructure.

Role of International Migrants Day

International Migrants Day is a time to raise these issues and advocate for policies that protect migrants' rights. It's a call to action for governments, organisations, and individuals to work toward creating inclusive societies where migrants feel valued and supported.

It supports migrants' rights. Among other international instruments is the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, in which the United Nations emphasises that international cooperation can facilitate this; migration is an activity for everyone.

International Migrants Day: A Reminder to Remember 

Migration has always been part of the history of people on earth. It reflects a natural expression of our human desire for progress and safety. A sense of understanding and sympathy will ensure that migrants are welcomed and valued and can contribute fully to their communities. With a very connected world today, embracing migrants as opportunities and not problems will do us all some good. In many ways, migrants add value to our societies, and their resilience is one of the strongest reminders that humanity is resilient. 

Conclusion 

It's International Migrants Day to celebrate the courage, richness in contributions, and diversity of millions of migrants worldwide. Collaboration on safe, dignified, and beneficial migration for all will build this future. Standing with millions of migrants in solidarity is how we honour their journey and celebrate the power of the human spirit.