The Global Compact For Migration conference wrapped up in Marrakech, Morocco on Tuesday, after 164 countries adopted the landmark pact to improve the lives of migrants around the world.
“For the first time in the history of the UN we’ve been able to tackle an issue that was long seen as out of bounds,” said UN Special Representative Louise Arbour at the closing of the conference. “We will see lives saved, living conditions improved, communities integrate and flourish through increased development and prosperity.”
Closing of Conference on Global Compact for Migration
One-third of all migrants are under 30 years old. Representing the world’s youth, child rights activist Cheryl Perera delivered a passionate message to leaders, calling on them to include young people in decisions on migration:
“We are the face of change and we’re ready to work with you. We just need you to give us a seat at the table and take us seriously.”
"We are the face of change & we're ready to work with you. We just need you to give us a seat at the table and take us seriously."
Activist @cherylperera spoke in front of 🌍 leaders in Marrakech, urging them to include young people in decisions on Global Compact #ForMigration. pic.twitter.com/egDx1nRVrK
— United Nations (@UN) December 11, 2018
Also in Marrakech, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Chair of the High-level Panel on Migration in Africa and former President of Liberia said that she believes resistance to the Global Compact For Migration will dissipate when countries see “the true story of migration and the fact that it benefits, it does not harm.”
Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Chair of the High-level Panel on Migration in Africa and former President of Liberia
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