What is it?
International Migrants Day is a global observance held annually to recognize the contributions of migrants worldwide and to raise awareness about the challenges they face. It also promotes the protection of their rights and celebrates the positive impact migration has on societies.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: December 18
- Tagged as: Migration, Human Rights, Solidarity
- What’s the hashtag?: #InternationalMigrantsDay
- When was it founded?: December 4, 2000
- Who founded it?: United Nations General Assembly
History of International Migrants Day
The origins of International Migrants Day trace back to December 18, 1990, when the UN adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. Migrant organizations first celebrated this day in 1997, advocating for solidarity with migrants. The UN officially proclaimed it in 2000 to highlight the growing importance of migration and its impact on global development.
Timeline
- 1990: UN adopts the International Convention on Migrant Workers’ Rights.
- 1997: Asian migrant organizations celebrate December 18 as a day of solidarity.
- 2000: UN officially declares December 18 as International Migrants Day.
- 2020: Global migrant population reaches 281 million, highlighting migration’s increasing relevance.
Dates for International Migrants Day (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | December 18 | Thursday |
| 2026 | December 18 | Friday |
| 2027 | December 18 | Saturday |
| 2028 | December 18 | Monday |
| 2029 | December 18 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | December 18 | Wednesday |
Observed on International Migrants Day
This day is observed through events organized by governments, NGOs, and international organizations. Activities include:
- Advocacy Campaigns: Sharing information about migrants’ rights and promoting policies for safer migration.
- Cultural Events: Celebrating the diversity and contributions of migrants through art, music, and storytelling.
- Policy Discussions: Hosting forums to address migration challenges and opportunities.
Fun Facts About International Migrants Day
- The global migrant population has tripled since 1970.
- Migration contributes significantly to economic growth in both origin and destination countries.
- The day emphasizes that human rights are universal, regardless of a person’s migration status.
Quiz
- What date is International Migrants Day observed?
- Who proclaimed International Migrants Day?
- What year was the global migrant population estimated at 281 million?
- What is the main hashtag for this day?
- What convention was adopted by the UN on December 18, 1990?
(Answers: 1. December 18; 2. United Nations General Assembly; 3. 2020; 4. #InternationalMigrantsDay; 5. The International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers.)
FAQs
- What is International Migrants Day about?
It recognizes migrants’ contributions and raises awareness about their challenges. - Why is it observed on December 18?
This date marks the adoption of a key UN convention on migrant workers’ rights in 1990. - Who organizes events for this day?
Governments, NGOs, and international organizations like IOM and UNESCO. - How can I participate?
You can join events, share stories online using hashtags, or advocate for migrants’ rights. - What are some challenges migrants face?
They often encounter discrimination, exploitation, and limited access to basic services.
Importance of International Migrants Day
- Raising Awareness: This day highlights issues like exploitation and discrimination faced by migrants while promoting their human rights.
- Celebrating Diversity: It acknowledges how migration enriches cultures and economies worldwide.
- Encouraging Solidarity: The observance fosters global unity in addressing migration challenges collaboratively.
Related
- World Refugee Day (June)
- Human Rights Day (December)
- International Day for Tolerance (November)