On 5 December, the latest biennial report on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) was launched. It was launched by the UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the UN General Assembly. The report evaluates progress and persistent challenges in managing migration effectively and humanely, as well as key recommendations to improve migration governance.
The report celebrates significant accomplishments, including the integration of migration into national development plans and the expansion of safe and regular pathways for migration, while emphasising the need for rights-based, gender-transformative labour migration policies.
Despite these advances, the report underscores urgent issues, including the perilous nature of migration, with 2023 recognised as one of the deadliest years for migrants. Over 3,500 individuals lost their lives attempting dangerous crossings in the Mediterranean alone, underscoring the urgent need for safe migration routes and enhanced search-and-rescue operations. Rising xenophobia and discrimination against migrants, inadequate responses to climate-driven migration, and insufficient resources continue to hinder progress.
Being in vulnerable situations, such as those faced by many migrants, significantly increases the risk of human trafficking and labour exploitation, making comprehensive protections and preventive measures essential.
To address these challenges, the report introduces a voluntary framework of indicators to help Member States evaluate GCM implementation, align migration policies with the 2030 Agenda, and improve data collection. It also recommends life-saving measures, enhanced international cooperation, and reinforced protections for migrants, urging Member States to scale up efforts and ensure migration remains a choice, not a necessity.