The Ministerial Meeting of African Countries Leading the Implementation of the Global Compact on Migration witnessed a wide participation of ministers and representatives from 17 African countries, in Cairo, on April 1st.
The meeting aimed to assess progress since the first International Migration Review Forum in New York in 2022 and discuss challenges and opportunities related to migration in the African context.
The participants appreciated Egypt’s role in hosting the event, emphasizing African leadership in maintaining the political momentum of the Global Compact on Migration. The ministerial statement highlighted that migration in Africa is influenced by interconnected factors, including economic disparities, population growth, climate change, and conflicts, stressing that effective management can support economic growth, innovation, and skills exchange.
The ministers commended Morocco’s continental role in developing migration policies, particularly through supporting the establishment of the African Migration Observatory. The statement noted that most African migration occurs within the continent, reflecting regional ties and enhancing economic integration.
Recommendations included adopting a unified African position before the 2026 International Migration Review Forum, enhancing continental coordination, and developing national migration governance systems. The statement emphasized combating transnational organized crime, human trafficking, and smuggling, while promoting secure border management and protecting migrants’ rights.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to enhance frameworks for voluntary return, sustainable reintegration, and freedom of movement, acknowledging the impact of conflicts and climate change on migration patterns and calling for regional cooperation.
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