International Organisation for Migration

Migration and Sustainable Development Goals

In a thought-provoking session, Géraldine Ansart, Chief of Mission at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Thailand, orchestrated a captivating workshop during the symposium. It convened the young scholars to delve into the intricate interplay between international migration and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Géraldine’s expert insights illuminated the workshop, peeling back layers of misunderstanding surrounding migration. She adeptly distinguished between migrants and refugees, placing a spotlight on the dignity and human rights of migrants. It was a revelation - the casual use of the term “illegal” to label migrants unveiled its complexity.

As Géraldine explained, categorizing migrants as “illegal” carries a criminal connotation that erodes their dignity and rights. In reality, they may find themselves in an irregular situation, but the “illegal” label oversimplifies their status and does them an injustice. This shift in perspective not only reframed the entire discourse but also reduced the risk of stigma and discrimination often faced by these individuals.

The heart of the workshop pulsated with an experiential exercise. Delegates assumed the roles of different Southeast Asian countries in a compelling simulation game. Here, they didn’t just learn about migration; they lived it. This experiential exercise transformed theory into understanding, deepening their grasp of migration’s multifaceted nature and its profound intersections with the SDGs. Scholars and speakers united in an atmosphere of mutual respect and profound dialogue, emerging not just informed, but inspired.

By the workshop’s conclusion, the delegates had embarked on a transformative academic journey. They gained not only a nuanced understanding of migration’s role in shaping societies but also a profound appreciation for the complexity of the SDGs. The workshop had not merely broadened their horizons; it had equipped them with the insights and knowledge necessary to become global change-makers, aligning with the United Nations’ mission to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals