‘Building Global Future: recognition of migrants’ qualifications and skills’

Islamabad:International Migrants Day, observed annually on 18th December, serves as a global platform to recognise, and celebrate the contributions of migrants to societies worldwide. 

International Migrants’ Day promotes the opportunity to reflect on the positive impacts of migration, raise awareness on the challenges they face and encourages dialogue on the importance of safe and orderly migration with full respect for the dignity and human rights of migrants.

This year's theme, “Building a Global Future: Recognition of Migrants’ Qualifications and Skills” has been selected by ICMPD and GIZ, considering the shared goals and priorities of the Government of Pakistan. The discussion focused on the promoting the export of skilled labour, meeting the skilled labour needs of destination countries, and addressing migrants' aspirations for skill recognition. The event explored challenges migrants face in global skill recognition and proposed viable solutions.

The event brought together a diverse range of over 60 stakeholders, including government officials, policymakers, academia, diplomats, international organisations, and civil society representatives. This collaborative effort sparked dialogues leading to ensuring equitable recognition of migrants' qualifications and skills across various sectors.

Raana Rahim, Head of Office/ Country Coordinator ICMPD, Pakistan in her opening remarks stated the importance of skills partnerships can contribute to effective tapping of the potential of migrants. Such partnerships can be an innovative mechanism for maximising brain gain, or the knowledge and skills of migrants, both in origin and destination countries.