Informal meeting of the plenary to hear a briefing on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration: Report of the Secretary-General - General Assembly, 80th session

Good afternoon, many of you. Good to see you again after this morning in the same room in between Pact for the Future. So, a very intensive working day. I called to order the informal meeting of the Plenary to hear a briefing on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. I warmly welcome all of you to this meeting, which will be focusing on the report of the Secretary General on the implementation of the Global Compact for Migration in accordance with Resolution 73326 of 7-19-29.

I will now make a statement as the President of the General assembly. Your Excellency, Mr. Antonio Guterres, Secretary General of the United Nations, Ms. Amy Pope, Director General of the International Organization for Migration. Excellencies, distinguished delegates, nearly four years have passed since the first International Migration Review Forum in May 2022, and this year was taking place and we are looking ahead to the second review of the Global Compact. Across this period, the fundamental reality of migration has remained unchanged. As has been the case for centuries, people have moved from one country to another in search for safety, opportunity and dignity.

Migration remains a fact of life, all of the more so in today's interconnected world migration. So the movement of people has different phases, probably as many faces as we all have here in these rooms. People move when they are young, when they are students, to study abroad and later to stay because of finding a friend, finding your husband or spouse. Others stay because they cannot find a job in their home countries. We have seasonal agriculture workers who travel each year to major farm hubs, for example, in my home country, coming from our neighboring countries or lately from further abroad.

Without these migrants, we could hardly produce any fruits in summer, and especially the very famous cold spagel. In other situations, we have big companies who need IT experts calling openly worldwide to come to their region so they can build up new startups or or the new AI technologies, especially in the service industry, in healthcare sectors. Many, many countries depend on migrant workers. And even the most famous superstars have to move from country to country, sometimes from continent to continent. As Europeans, we all know Leonie Messi, who is coming from Argentina, but he played for a long time in Barcelona, Spain and in Paris Saint Germain, France, before continuing to finalize his career in the United States with Inter Miami.

So all these different faces show that it's not only human to move and to be a migrant, but also that it means different opportunities and challenges. Unfortunately, in the last times, the increase of migrations meant that people did not move to become a Superstar. But too many have to move because of tragic circumstances. People who are compelled by poverty or crisis at home and who seek a better future abroad for themselves or their children. And too often those people are facing vulnerable journeys and situations of exploitation or even trafficking.

These risks further underline the importance of better global regulation and strong protection systems for all migrants. But I would like to underline again that also a student is even a football player leads also global regulation on health care or social protections. So again, all these government structures are in the interest of all. Migration is not an individual issue, but is a global one. With an estimated 304 million migrants worldwide, it is in the interest of all Member States to have governance structures aligned with the Global Compact to ensure that migration occurs in a matter that is safe, human and predictable.

The Global Compact provides a framework for aligning national interest with global stability and for ensuring that migration delivers tangible benefits for communities in countries of origin, transit and destination alike. Looking ahead to the second International Migration Review Forum, the General assembly has an important responsibility to take stock of implementation against the commitments of the Global Compact to spotlight successes and challenges and to mobilize strengthens collective action that accelerates safe, orderly and regular migration worldwide. In this regard, I have appointed His Excellency Mr. Erastus Locale, Permanent Representative of Kenya, and His Excellency Mr. Olivier Maas, Permanent Representative of Luxembourg, as co facilitators to guide the preparatory process. I encourage Member States to engage actively and constructively in this process. Today's briefing offers an opportunity to take stock and to deepen our common understanding.

And now I have the honor to invite the Secretary General to present his report.

Madam President of the General Assembly, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. Human mobility is profoundly shaping our world. Yet instead of responding with cooperation, the global reaction has too often been driven by fear, division and rank opportunism. Across continents, migrants are being instrumentalized to score political points with devastating human consequences.

They are being dehumanized in public discourse and they are being denied the rights and dignity that belong to every member of the human family. Despite the enormous contributions migrants make to economies and societies, safe and regular pathways are becoming ever more restrictive, especially for families and low wage workers who face the steepest barriers. When pathways are blocked, migrants do not disappear. They are pushed into danger, exploitation and the hands of smugglers. And it breaks my heart to see migrants exposed to abuse, violence and deaths among dangerous routes.

It is a moral outrage that thousands of men, women and children die or go missing every year because no safe alternative exists. Migrants are not criminals they are victims. The real criminals are those who prey on human vulnerability. The real criminals are ruthless smuggling and trafficking networks. They profit from despair, exploit the absence of safe alternatives, and thrive when cooperation fails.

They must be pursued, prosecuted, and brought to justice. Excellencies, the report before you today makes one truth Unmistakably migration is not a crisis. The crisis is the failure to manage it together. The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration is built on the understanding that no country can manage migration alone, not countries of origin, transit or destination, and not in a world confronting the accelerating impacts of climate change, demographic shifts and economic transformation. Since the adoption of the Global Compact, many member states have taken important steps expanding regular pathways, strengthening labor mobility initiatives, improving search and rescue, enhancing data systems and supporting safer return and reintegration.

Cities and local authorities have shown leadership and courage, often on the front lines with limited resources. Workers, organizations, diaspora communities and civil society have brought ideas, expertise and solutions. And the United nations system has come together through the UN Network on Migration to provide coordinated support. But around the world, progress is uneven and far below what today's realities demand. Those realities demand migration governance that is rights based, gender responsible and child sensitive.

And they demand migration governance that respects national sovereignty but also is rooted in human dignity across labor markets, health systems, education, social protection and disaster response. To be effective, our work must be oriented around two first, expanding and simplifying clear pathways of regular migration and second, ensuring development cooperation that meaningfully invests in education, skills and decent job creation in countries of origin. We must now translate vision into accelerated action for safe, orderly and regular migration by strengthening cooperation to save lives and strengthen communities by cracking down on smuggling and traffic networks and making fair and ethical recruitment the norm, ending recruitment fees and protecting domestic and care workers, most of whom are women by scaling up rights based alternatives for all and ending child immigration detention by integrating climate action and human mobility protecting those most exposed by using technology ethically and responsibly.

By recognizing qualifications, matching the skills of migrants with labor market needs and reducing remittances costs and locking shared prosperity for countries of origin and destination alike by confronting toxic narratives with evidence, truth and humanity and by investing in social cohesion, embracing diversity as a source of richness, not a threat. Excellence Excellencies the upcoming International Migration Review Forum must help the world further move from discussion to decisive, measurable action across routes and regions.

Humane cooperative migration governance is not only possible, it is essential to a stable, peaceful and prosperous world.

Migration is a story as old as humanity, a story of courage, resilience and mutual benefits. Our task is to ensure that it never becomes a story of death and despair. Let us choose cooperation over chaos, and dignity over discrimination. Let us make the global compact real in every region, on every route, for every migrant. Thank you.

I thank the Secretary General. I now give the floor to Ms. Amy Pope, Director General of the International Organization for Migration and Coordinator of the United Nations Network on Migration to brief the membership.

Thank you, Madam President of the General assembly and Mr. Secretary General, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, distinguished delegates, colleagues and friends. You. It's such an honor to be with you here today in my role as Coordinator of the United Nations Network on Migration.

And we are gathering at an important moment in time. Across the world, migration is dominating political debates. And the focus is far too often on managing borders, irregular movements, and on the pressures the communities face when those systems are stretched. And let me be clear, those concerns are real. Governments are navigating moments that are shaped by conflict, climate impacts, demographic shifts and inequality.

And they need, you need practical solutions and stronger cooperation. But we can't lose sight of the bigger picture. Migration is not only a challenge to manage, it's our human reality. It's constant, it's inevitable. And, and it's a powerful force that if governed well, delivers enormous benefits for our communities.

It's a nurse who's filling a critical shortage in a hospital. It's an entrepreneur who's creating jobs in their community, a student who's learning new skills, a worker who's sending home remittances far more than any development assistance that's out there, that it's paying for food, that's paying for education, that's paying for health care. And the report that we are launching today offers that balanced picture. It's prepared at the request of the General assembly of all of you. And it's the most comprehensive global assessment of how we're implementing the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.

And it reflects consultations across all regions, highlighting both the progress and the gaps that we're seeing around the world. So thank you for being part of that effort. And we're seeing some encouraging trends. First, countries are expanding regular pathways and regional cooperation is deepening and data and whole of government approaches are improving. But the report is also very clear.

We are not moving fast enough. Far too many migrants are still resorting to dangerous journeys, putting their money in the hands of human smugglers and traffickers, because safe options for them to move are limited. Too many families are left searching for their loved ones who went missing along migratory routes. And far too Often all across the world. Migration is becoming a source of division rather than cooperation.

Let me be clear, States. Every one of you has a sovereign right to set your own migration policies. That's not in question. But by its very nature, migration requires cooperation between states. And if we want to see fewer deaths, if we want to see fewer people who are exploited, if we want to see better managed borders and an end to the criminal exploitation of vulnerable people, if we want to realize the benefits of safe and regular migration, we have to strengthen the cooperation along the migration routes.

The Forum gives you, our member states, the opportunity to do just that. And the Secretary General's report provides some guidance on how to use this moment. First, it's important to realize most migration is regional. People are moving along established corridors that are shaped by geography, by labor demand, by community ties. Yet policies are far too often still developed in isolation, one border at a time.

A roots based approach asks us to look at the entire journey. It brings together countries of origin, the countries of transit and the countries of destination to cooperate, to cooperate on issues like protection, labor mobility, border management, identity management, returns and sustainable reintegration. And it calls for cooperation to save lives. It calls for better data sharing, coordinated responses to crisis, and more predictable, safe, legal and regular pathways for people to move. It also enables us to use the tools that have already been built under the Compact, including the Capacity Building Mechanism and the Migration Multi Partner Trust Fund.

And at a moment in time when we're all talking about UN80 and the pressure from all of you to better coordinate amongst agencies, this Multi Partner Trust Fund, the UN Network, the Capacity Building Mechanism, are tools that demonstrate how much better we can deliver when we're working together. It supports practical cross border initiatives. And it requires reaffirming the Compact's guiding principles that international cooperation, respect for national sovereignty and a full respect for human rights are essential to making this work. Now, the principles reinforce one another, so sovereign states are stronger when they cooperate. Borders are better managed when responsibility is shared and public confidence grows, when the policies are effective and when they're humane.

Now, above all, we are keeping people at the center, because behind every policy debate is a person. It's a person making a difficult decision for their family's future. And our responsibility is not to romanticize migration, it's not to politicize it, but it's to govern it with realism, with compassion and with evidence. So as coordinator of the Network, I want to assure you we are bringing the UN system together in a more coordinated and structured way to support you and to support the your constituencies. We are realigning our expertise, our operational capacities and our policy advice so that we can respond to your national priorities.

But implementation of the Compact is not ultimately with UN agencies. It's with all of you, with our member states, including those of you who are here today. So, as we look forward to the Review Forum coming in May here in New York, come forward not just with your statements, which are valuable, but more valuable are your commitments, including through the Compact's pledging initiative, concrete pragmatic pledges, practical partnerships, investments in cooperation along key migratory routes. If we scale what works, and we address in a candid way what is not working, if we stay anchored in the Compact's 360 degree vision, we can move beyond crisis management and move toward genuine shared solutions. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I have to be honest with you.

Migration is going to continue regardless of what we decide here. The question is not whether it will happen. The question is how. Together we can shape it. So let's choose cooperation over fragmentation.

Let's choose facts over fear. Let's choose shared solutions over unilateral responses. Because together we can ensure that migration is safe, orderly and regular, and that it works for migrants and for societies alike. Thank you very much.

I thank the Director General of the International Organization for Migration and Coordinator of the United Nations Network on Migration.

As indicated in my letter dated February 16, this briefing serves as an opportunity to exchange perspectives on issues raised in the report and to build momentum ahead of the second International Migration Review Forum to be held from May 5 to May 8, 2026. This meeting will not have a pre established list of speakers. Delegations wishing to take the floor are invited to press the microphone button now. Members are requested to limit their interventions to 5 minutes when speaking on behalf of a group and 3 minutes when speaking in a national capacity. Time limit will be strictly enforced.

Through an automatic microphone cutoff, a timer will be projected on screen. Those speaking on behalf of a group should approach the Secretariat to be given priority in the speaking order. As a first speaker, I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ireland on behalf of a group of member states, followed by Azerbaijan and fitchi.

Madam President, Mr. Secretary General. Excellencies, I have the honor to speak on behalf of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden, which are members states of the European Union. Bearing in mind that not all of them are participating in the gcm, we thank the Secretary General for His comprehensive report and for the continued work of the UN Network on Migration. We are fully committed to protecting the human rights of migrants. The EU Pact on Asylum and Migration, along with the European Asylum and Migration Management Strategy and EU Visa Strategy step up cooperation with international partners taking into account all aspects of migration while strengthening our internal policies.

We must continue to address the root causes of irregular migration and forced displacement, including conflict, poverty, human rights abuses, climate change and instability. We strive for a whole of government approach to migration by embedding migration related objectives such as effective return, in those of other policy areas. At the same time, credible migration systems require effective action to prevent irregular migration. The EU led Global alliance to Counter Migrant Smuggling strengthens cooperation with partner countries, international organisations and the private sector. Countering traffickers and smugglers must be accompanied by robust protection for victims to save lives along migration routes.

We must strengthen cooperation on search and rescue, improve identification of missing migrants where possible and address the conditions that drive people into the hands of smugglers. Effective management of external borders in full respect of international law and human rights is another important priority. We recognise the importance of well managed regular pathways in line with national policies and legislation. Regular migration, when well governed, can contribute to economic growth, innovation and sustainable development in countries of origin and destination alike. A comprehensive approach to migration management integrates return readmission and sustainable reintegration, including non voluntary returns.

Effective return policies carried out in full respective international law, human rights and the obligation of States to readmit their own nationals are essential to maintain the integrity and credibility of migration systems. Sustainable reintegration should ensure that returns are durable and contribute to development in countries of origin. We must continue strengthening cooperation between countries of origin, transit destination and safe third countries to ensure that return and readmission obligations are effectively implemented, including through innovative solutions such as return arrangements and return hubs in third countries. We remain committed to ensuring that regular migrants have access to decent working conditions, fair recruitment practices and essential services in accordance with applicable domestic laws. Protecting migrant workers from exploitation, strengthening labor inspections, promoting ethical recruitment and ensuring Social Security rights benefit both migrants and host societies.

Finally, we condemn any form of instrumentalization of persons on the move wherever their status may be. The Progress Declaration should reaffirm the non legally binding nature of the global compact and respect for national sovereignty. Call for an increasingly joint one UN approach grounded in the UN 80 initiative and the humanitarian reset. Preserve the balanced 360 degree vision of the Compact ensuring equal attention to prevention of irregular migration, including through tackling root causes, countering migrant smoking and combating traffic in human beings, saving lives, effective return and reintegration and optimizing regular pathways in line with national competences. Recall support for comprehensive and whole of route approach to migration management.

Support responsibility of all actors of migration governance, including countries of destination, transit, origin and safe third countries based on comprehensive and mutually beneficial cooperation. Strengthen operational cooperation along migration routes. Emphasise the importance of comprehensive migration partnerships. Address the benefits and take stock of innovative solutions for migration management. Call for effective measures to address abusive asylum procedures in full respect of international legal obligations.

Promote measurable progress and relevant analysis mechanisms through data indicators and peer learning. Reflect the non voluntary return component within the broader framework of safe and dignified return and readmission as well as sustainable reintegration. Encourage national ownership of return and reintegration policies, notably in supporting capacity building infrastructures in countries of origin transit such as civil registry and referral systems Maintain a clear distinction between regular and irregular migratory status. Ensure that the specific challenges faced by vulnerable persons, including women and children, continue to be fully addressed and finally, the form should focus on practical implementation on concrete

I thank the distinguished representative of Ireland on behalf of a group of Member States. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Azerbaijan on behalf of the GCM champion countries.

Thank you Madam President. I'm honored to deliver this statement on behalf of the 41 champion countries of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. We thank the Secretary General for his comprehensive reports on the implementation of the gcm, which provides clear guidance to informed deliberations at the upcoming International Migration Review Forum.

The report underscores a fundamental truth as we confront demographic shifts and rising anti migrant narratives. The GCM remains an essential framework for cooperation rooted in human rights and shared responsibility. This common framework is more relevant than ever. We echo the Secretary General's call to strengthen progress across the full range of issues covered in the Compact and reiterate his recognition of the forum as an opportunity to harness momentum through concrete, practical and rights based actions, including through route based cooperation. We share too deep concern over the rising number of deaths and disappearances along migratory routes.

We reaffirm our commitment to strengthen cooperation on saving lives, search and rescue and addressing missing migrants, guided by by the actionable recommendations provided by the Secretary General in his previous report. We also reiterate our call to take measures aimed at preventing detention of accompanied and unaccompanied migrant children and adolescents, taking into consideration the best interests of the child at all times, noting the limited progress on supporting family unity as outlined in the report and to highlight the importance of using an evidence based approach to counter negative narratives on migrants. We thank the United Nations Network on Migration under IOM Coordination for its provision of system wide support in delivering on the GCM and reiterate our call for States to pledge financing to the Migration MPTF while thanking those donors to date. As GCM Champion countries, we remain committed to advancing the practical implementation of all 23 objectives of the GCM consistent with its 10 guiding principles. Guided by our shared values and responsibilities, we will continue to promote cooperation, uphold human rights and ensure that migration contributes positively to societies.

The upcoming International Migration Review Forum is an opportunity to reinforce trust in multilateralism and demonstrate that safe, orderly and regular migration is achievable through cooperation, evidence based policies and respect for human rights. We look forward to working constructively with His Excellency Mr. Erastus Locale, permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya and His Excellency Mr. Olivier Maes, permanent Representative of Luxembourg, towards an effective Progress Declaration. We stand ready to work with all Member States and partners to ensure a meaningful and ambitious outcome at the imrf. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Azerbaijan on behalf of the GCM Champion Countries.

I now give the floor to Fiji on behalf of the Pacific small island developing countries, followed by Kenya on behalf of the CO faciliators and then moving on to the national capacities Canada and Morocco.

Madam President, Secretary General, Director General of the IOM Excellencies, I have the honor to deliver this statement on behalf of the Pacific Small island developing States whose members are represented here in New York. At the outset, we extend our appreciation to you Madam President, for convening this briefing. We also thank the Secretary General for his report and for his guidance. PCID is also grateful for the report from the Director General of IOM as we prepare for the second IMRF this May 2026. Madam President, this year we will gather at a moment of profound consequence for our region.

Across the Pacific, peoples patterns of mobility are saved by geography and choice, while our priority remains on strengthening resilience so communities can continue to live safely and with dignity where they are. On this basis, the PC reaffirms its commitment to the Global Compact and wishes to present the following priorities that reflect both our vulnerabilities and our aspirations for the upcoming second imrf. First, climate related mobility must be recognized as a central pillar of global migration governance. This is underscored in the Secretary General's report reiterating the urgent need for climate action. Pacific communities are already experiencing sea level rise, extreme weather events and environmental degradation that threaten livelihoods.

This is why the PCs fully supports the ongoing resolution for the General assembly in relation to the ICJ Advisory Opinion on Climate Change led by Vanuatu and the pre COP meeting in the Pacific this year under the leadership of Australia and Turkey. In this regard, PC's call for strengthened international cooperation to support adaptation, coastal protection and land restoration so communities can continue to live safely and with dignity where they are while ensuring systems for those affected by climate related impacts in line with national approaches. Second, safe and regular labor mobility remains essential to our development and resilience. Labor mobility schemes provide critical economic opportunities for Pacific peoples, contribute significantly to our national economies and in some cases support the upskilling of our people. We urge the continued expansion of fair, ethical and transparent recruitment pathways, stronger safeguards against exploitation and improved access to social protection, skills, recognition and portability of benefits.

Third, the human rights of migrant workers must be protected. We emphasize the needs for accessible grievance mechanisms, gender responsive protections and targeted support for vulnerable migrant workers, including women, youth and persons with disabilities. Migration governance must be rooted in respect for human rights of migrant workers and international labor standards. Finally, migration must be recognized as a driver of sustainable development Remittances, diaspora engagement and skills mobility contribute significantly to our resilience and economic diversification in our region. Migration for employment, education and other pathways, whether internally or cross border, has enabled people to access health, development of new skills, build new networks and even open up market opportunities for our local products.

In diaspora communities. We encourage global partners to support initiatives that enhance these contributions while also ensuring that migration remains a choice, not a necessity born of climate or economic distress. Madam President, the Pacific region has long demonstrated leadership in shaping humane, forward looking approaches to mobility. We stand ready to work with all Member States to ensure that the Global Compact delivers on its promise in this upcoming IMRF2 not only for our islands but for all communities navigating the complex realities of migration. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of FITCHI on behalf of the Pacific small island developing countries. I now give the floor to Kenya on behalf of the co Facilitators

Madam President of the General Assembly, Secretary General, Director General of RM Excellencies, I have the honor to speak on behalf of Ambassador Olivier Maas, the Permanent Representative of Luxembourg, and on my own behalf in our capacity as co facilitators for the intergovernmental consultations on the Progress Declaration to be concluded ahead of the Second International Migration Review Forum which will be held here in New York from 5th to 8th of May 2026. We thank the President of the General Assembly, Her Excellency Annalina Babok, for the confidence she has placed on us to steer this important process under the auspices of the General Assembly. Through open, transparent and inclusive consultations, we aim to capture shared progress, identify persistent challenges and agree on forward looking recommendations and commitments to be reflected in a brief, concise, evidence based and action oriented Progress Declaration Ensuring broad and constructive participation by Member States, observers, the UN system and other stakeholders. These efforts will advance the effective implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, orderly and Regular Migration and reinforce its linkages to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We are also grateful to the Secretary General for his comprehensive biennial report on the implementation of the Global Compact and for the valuable guidance it provides to our deliberations at this Forum.

The report reminds us that the compact 360 degree whole of government and whole of society approach remains our shared framework for practical rights based cooperation along migration routes in all regions. We also acknowledge the critical support of the United Nations Network on Migration coordinated by the International Organization for Migration, which continues to assist Member States in translating the Compact into tangible policies and joint initiatives, including through the Migration Multi Partner Trust Fund Demand Driven Facility and the Migration Network Hub. In conclusion, we count on the active and substantive engagement of all delegations and stakeholders so that Progress Declaration can truly reflect our collective commitment to making migration safer, more orderly and more regular in full respect of human rights and in Support of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Kenya and also the distinguished representative of Luxembourg to assume this important responsibility. I now give the floor to Canada, followed by Morocco and Nigeria.

Merci, Madame la Presidente. Thank you, Madam President, Excellency. It's an honor to be here to talk about collective projects we've accomplished under the Global Compact and we are looking forward to the upcoming Review Forum.

Canada welcomes the report by the Secretary General and supports without reservation the multilateralism at its core. We recognize that States cannot move forward their migratory authorities unless they work together and in line with international law. We thank the Secretary General and the United Nations Migration Network and all Member States for the efforts they continue making so as to attain the goals of the Compact. And we align ourselves with a statement made by Azerbaijan on behalf of the 41 champion countries. Our commitment is long standing and is based on diversity, human rights and gender equality and on the Convention that migration, when it's well managed, helps society and

migrants themselves through international Migration Review Forum Canada made pledges to encourage regular migration pathways, foster best practices for integration and social cohesion, advance a gender responsive approach to migration and promote a balanced narrative on migration since then, we have made progress on these commitments both domestically and internationally, and we take note with appreciation

of the progress in these areas presented in the report. Amongst others, Canada remains committed to our humanitarian objectives and family reunification goals, while continuing to attract the talent needed to fill key labor shortages in a way that is sustainable and responsive to communication community capacity. We continue to note the importance of regular migration pathways, including for skilled workers

and for advancing foreign credential recognition systems. Achieving our objectives can only be accomplished through collaboration, reflecting a whole of government and indeed a whole of society approach. We are achieving this in part by working with local, provincial and territorial governments with we are also listening to the needs of communities, whether employers, entrepreneurs, regional and community leaders, migrants, refugees and settlement groups.

When migration is managed in a safe, orderly and regular way, it helps build public confidence and trust. Canada has long recognized positive contributions of migrants to our communities and our economy. We support the principal principles of the Global Compact and we look forward to tackling these issues together.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Canada. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Morocco.

Thank you, Madam President. My delegation would like to first of all thank you for organizing this important meeting of ours. And we would like to also thank the Secretary General for his exhaustive report on the implementation of the Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. We also thank Ms. Amy Pope for her presentation and her leadership at the head of iom. Madam President, the Secretary General's report shows very clear pathway for the exchanges we will have during the second Review Forum in May.

And the conclusions show the current realities, the demographic changes, climate related movements, hostile atmosphere towards the migrants and it underscores the role the Pact is playing in shared responsibility. We fully support the appeal launched by the Secretary General to consolidate our advances on the basis of the Pact. And we will continue making efforts to promote cooperation, protect the rights and underscore the contribution migrants are making in their countries of origin, transit and destination. The Global Compact on the Safe, Orderly and Legal Migration which was adopted in Marrakesh in 2018, remains the only multilateral agreement which covers all of the dimension of this phenomenon and provides a large number of options for partnership and cooperation. We need to safeguard the develop, but especially make more concrete.

Since the first review forum International Migration Review Forum in 2022, we have seen progress in developing national reports, voluntary national reports, regional reviews, including in Africa.

40 countries and the DIV. Development of indicators for the implementation of the Pact, creating a multi party Trust fund to which Morocco was the first Arab African participants. But the emergencies we are facing today and this is linked to the second forum in 2026 means that we should not just reaffirm our commitment to the Pact. Rather we need to commit ourselves to keeping this issue at the top of priorities as the UN reform process is going on, including appropriate financing, proper mandate and synchronized implementation. The second forum this year will provide us with an opportunity to re encourage trust in multilateral cooperation and make sure that safe, orderly and regular migration is possible thanks to the joint efforts of

ours Representative of Morocco I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nigeria, followed by Czechia and Guatemala.

Madame President Secretary General DG Excellencies. Nigeria aligns with the statement delivered on behalf of the 41 GCM champion countries and wishes to make these few remarks in our national capacity. We thank the Secretary General for this comprehensive report and commend the UN Network on Migration for its vital coordination as we approach the 2026 International Migration Review Forum. The report reminds us that migration is not merely a policy issue, it is about people.

With over 300 million people living outside their countries of birth, we are speaking about families, workers and youth seeking safety and dignity. The tragic loss of life along dangerous routes must compel us to move beyond rhetoric and act with genuine urgency and humanity. Nigeria welcomes the progress noted in the report, specifically the expansion of regular pathways, the promotion of ethical recruitment and the development of alternatives to immigration detention. These are not just administrative goals, they are essential tools to reduce vulnerability and restore dignity to migration governance Africa holds the largest number of GCM champion countries and has demonstrated practical leadership in implementation. However, our continent remains disproportionately affected by climate induced displacement.

Nigeria calls for a renewed focus on the nexus between climate change, human mobility and development in line with both the GCM and the African Union's revised Migration Policy framework. Madam President, Nigeria is deeply concerned by the report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights highlighting serious violations and abuses against migrants, asylum seekers and refugees in certain transit contexts, particularly Nigerian nationals. Tragically, these abuses are not abstract, but they are lived experiences for many Nigerians abroad. Reports of arbitrary detention, exploitation, sexual and gender based violence and human trafficking are deeply alarming and demand urgent attention from international community. Migration management must never come at the expense of human dignity.

Border controls and return arrangements must remain consistent with international human rights law and the principle of non refilement. Corporations should protect the vulnerable, not expose them to further abuse. As a country of origin, transit and destination, Nigeria sees foresight how well managed migration, force development through diaspora engagement, skill transfer and remittances that sustain Millions. As we look toward 2026, let us reaffirm our shared responsibility. The global Compact is built on trust and balance.

Nigeria remains committed to working with UN and fellow member states to ensure that migration remains safe, orderly and above all, people centered. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nigeria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Czechia.

Madam President, I thank the Secretary General for his report and I would like to deliver a few remarks on on behalf of my country, the Czech Republic that is also a member of the European Union.

At the outset, let me make it clear. The Czech Republic is not participating in the non legally binding Global Compact for Migration and we do not intend to change that. For us, it is paramount to stress one key full respect for the sovereign right of states to determine their national migration policies. As a non signatory, we pursue a data driven whole of route and whole of society approach to migration. We work pragmatically and in mutually beneficial ways with countries of origin and transit.

We must also address systematically and honestly the drivers of irregular migration and the risks along migration routes. Providing adequate protection for those who genuinely need it, preventing dangerous journeys and needless loss of life, combating human smuggling and trafficking, countering the instrumentalization of migration and ensuring effective returns and sustainable reintegration. Criminal networks thrive on irregular migration. Most people who enter countries irregularly do so with the assistance of of organized criminal groups and smuggling Networks. Within the EU, around 90% of irregular arrivals rely on smugglers.

These criminal gangs endanger lives, exploit vulnerability and strip people of dignity for profit. This is intolerable and it must be confronted. We therefore call for stepping up efforts to prevent and counter irregular migration as close as possible to countries of origin and along the migration routes. We must develop new, innovative approaches to managing migration. Finally, a comprehensive approach to migration requires a firm and well functioning return system.

Swift returns of those not entitled to international protection are essential not only to uphold the rule of law, but also to deter further irregular migration and to focus our resources on those truly in need, supported by effective readmission, cooperation and where appropriate, reintegration assistance. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Czechia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Guatemala, followed by Thailand and Cuba.

Madam President, Director General, my delegation welcomes the convening of this meeting which sets the stage for the second International Migration Review Forum, a key platform for assessing the commitments undertaken in 2018 through the Global Compact on Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration and above all, to translate them into tangible actions. We thank the Secretary General for the recommendations contained in his report and we acknowledge the role of the IOM as Coordinator and Secretariat of the United Nations Network on Migration. We recognize that migration is a powerful driver of sustainable development, providing benefits to countries of origin and destination. Migrants contribute not only their labor and entrepreneurship, but also cultural diversity. Knowledge and skills that strengthen contribute to more cohesive and resilient societies.

Guatemala has strengthened its migration governance through the implementation of its National Migration Policy which was developed using the Global Compact for Migration as a framework. This policy instrument guides national level actions to manage migration in a comprehensive manner based on its guiding principles. We are delivering comprehensive responses for Guatemalan returnees through the Return Home Plan Strategy. The main objective of that is to provide assistance ensuring their safety and well being as well as their sustainable reintegration in alignment with objective 21 of the Global Compact. Irregular migration entails serious risks for those who decide to embark on this journey, often falling prey to organized criminal groups engaged in trafficking in persons and the smuggling of migrants.

And this is a situation that remains alarming. Therefore, we reaffirm that bilateral and regional cooperation is essential in order to save lives, dismantle criminal networks and strengthen border security. The Secretary General reminds us quite rightly in his report that no state can achieve its migration priorities alone, which underscores the value of the forum as a space for sharing best practices. Only through effective multilateralism will we be able to build trust and lasting solutions for our populations. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Guatemala. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Thailand.

Madam President, the Director General of IOM Excellencies Thailand aligns itself with a statement by Azerbaijan on behalf of the GCM champion countries and thanks the Secretary General for his comprehensive report. With more than 300 million migrants worldwide, against the backdrop of aid cuts and emerging migration challenges, it is more crucial than ever to ensure safe, orderly and regular migration. Today. Saint Thailand would like to share a few points in our national capacity. First, none of us can address the challenges of migration alone.

The GCM remains a crucial and comprehensive guide to managing international migration. As GCM champion countries, Thailand is committed to advancing the implementation of the GCM in accordance with its guiding principles. We are proud to host the UNSCAP Regional Review last year which gather much needed insights from the Asia Pacific for the upcoming imrf. Second, as highlighted in the report, dismantling criminal network that fill and exploit irregular migration, including human trafficking in the context of online scams remains an urgent need. Thailand, together with the unodc co hosted the International Conference on the Global Partnership Against Online scam last year and we are ready to work with partners on this issue.

Third, the importance of the protection of children can never be overstated. Thailand remains committed to our pledge to effectively implement alternative to detention or ATD for migrant children. We will continue to advocate for ATD with the best interests of of the children in mind. Lastly, promoting fair and correct public perception of migrants and their positive contribution to the society remains key. Thailand has worked closely with partners including IOM and CSOs on projects to address misinformation and negative stereotypes on migrants and promote evidence based discourse in media.

The upcoming review is an important opportunity to recommit to international cooperation on migration. We look forward to working together with our Member States and partners for a successful iamrf. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Thailand. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by China and Qatar.

Mucha thank you very much Madam President. We appreciate the convening of this briefing. We commend the participation of the Secretary General, Antonio Guterres and the Director General of the International Organization for Migration, the iom, Amy Pope, whose presentation we very much welcome. Migrants and migratory flows are not a problem, rather they are a phenomenon of our times. They are influenced by, among other factors, by the global socio economic situation, asymmetries that are reproduced by hegemonic domination systems and power centers and unilateral coercive measures which have a negative and direct impact on many countries, fundamentally on the most vulnerable sectors.

Solutions involve addressing the structural causes of those Dialogue and cooperation are the path to encourage and ensure regular, safe and orderly migration with full respect for human rights and the priorities of each nation. We reiterate in this context our commitment to the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration as well as our support for the iom whose support for the implementation of cooperation programs with Cuba we very much value and welcome. Madam President. Anti migrant policies being promoted from the north are deplorable, together with the repeated mass deportations being used as a political weapon which constitute grave violations of human rights. We robustly condemn the inhumane, racist and xenophobic treatment that migrants are being subjected to in the United States and a political system that promotes structural racism.

We denounce the cruel and inhumane economic, commercial and financial blockade that that country has imposed against Cuba for more than 60 years and we condemn the criminal attempt by the US government to impose a fuel blockade on our country which is the main cause for the collective punishment that Cubans are being subjected to because we chose to defend our independence. The blockade is an incentive to a driver of unsecure irregular migration and it targets highly qualified young human resources. That policy must end. Although the challenges that we face are colossal, Cuba will continue to work with the United nations, the IOM and the international community in order to build a migration future of peace, understanding and cooperation. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of China.

President China welcomes your convening of this briefing. We thank Secretary General Guterres for his report and we commend Director General Pope for her work in leading the iom. The current international landscape is fraught with chaos and changes as well as growing complexity and sensitivity associated with international migration. Global migration governance is going through increasing instability uncertainty. The international community therefore urgently needs to strengthen unity and cooperation to promote a safe, orderly and regular migration.

I wish to make three points. 1. Practice multilateralism to tackle migration governance challenges. It is imperative to strengthen dialogue and consultation Oppose politicizing migrant issues properly address emerging topics with regard to climate change, digital technology and migration. Support IOM to take the lead in global migration governance and accelerate the implementation of CGCM.

2. Advocate A people centered approach to protect the legitimate rights and interests of migrants. It is necessary to view migration with more openness, inclusiveness and fairness Stand against incitement to racism and xenophobia Promote social integration of migrants and inspire them to tap into their potential so that they become participants in, contributors to and beneficiaries of sustainable development. 3. Stay action oriented to focus on the underlying factors that trigger migration, it is important to adopt integrated measures, deal with both the symptoms and root causes with a particular focus on solving deep seated problems such as regional conflicts and unbalanced development.

Attention should be paid to the countries in the developing world that receive migrants. At the same time, there is a need to improve the migration management service delivery in countries to make them more customer centric and client friendly. President China accords great importance to this issue. We diligently perform our duties under the gcm, continuously introduce relevant policies that feature openness and inconvenience, comprehensively optimize the visa free transit program and actively participate in multilateral cooperation on migrant issues and make our contribution to the work related to global migration. 2026 marks the beginning of China's 15th Five Year Plan.

We will open wider at a higher standard and create new opportunities for win win cooperation. China stands ready to work with all parties to implement the GGI jointly promote the reform of the global migrant governance system make active efforts to better protect the well being of migrants in order to achieve the goal of orderly flow of global population. And thank you, President.

I thank the distinguished representative of China. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Qatar.

Mr. President, I would like to thank you for having resonate this meeting and I thank the Secretary General for his report. I appreciate and welcome the presence here of the Director General of IOM at this meeting of ours. Ladies and gentlemen, in line with the stable policies pursued by Qatar which strengthens human rights and protects them, we are attached to our role as an active participant internationally in order to implement the global objectives as regards safe, orderly and regular migration. And we participate in any and all international organizations involved. We ratified a cooperation agreement with IOM in 2024 to strengthen our cooperation and so as to strengthen the role played by the Migration Office in Doha.

It is through our societies and charity organizations that we help the refugees or people who are displaced or migrants in the various areas such as for example, employment or health or education.

And contribute to many people throughout the world. We have a charity fund which helps provide humanitarian support to the Afghan people and we have contributed to a great number of projects to help with housing, health, education, Safety services. We also strengthen partnership for rapid response in support in Iraq and Syria, in Sudan, Yemen and other countries. The goal here was to host the displaced or the migrants. We also participate in various initiatives

through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Working Group.

So is to tackle the issue of migration and so as to implement the Global Compact. We will continue with our voluntary role to implement the Pact and finally, we affirm our commitment to cooperation with everyone so as to move forward in the implementation of the Migration Compact. Safe, orderly and regular migration. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Qatar.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil.

Mr. President, Madam Director General of IOM Colleagues, Brazil. Thanks to Secretary General for his comprehensive report on the implementation of the global complex for safe, orderly and regular migration. We align ourselves with the statement of Azerbaijan on behalf of the GCM Champion Countries Initiative. As we approach the second International Migration Review Forum. We are pleased to Note that the SG's recommendations are fully present in Brazil's views, policies and practices regarding migration, governance and international cooperation.

Brazil is particularly pleased to participate in this year's forum as it highlights our return to the Global Compact, a decision made by President Lula in the very first days of his current mandate. Last year, Brazil also joined the GCM Champion Countries Initiative, a sign of our strong commitment to the full implementation of the Compact's objectives. At a time when dehumanizing rhetoric and harmful narratives continue to portray migrants as scapegoats for broader societal challenges. Brazil is proud to move in the opposite direction. Last year, we launched a comprehensive National Policy on migration, refuge and Statelessness, a landmark framework guiding the reception, integration and protection of these populations within our territory.

This policy adopts a cross cutting approach to ensure the full inclusion of displaced populations in health, education, employment and social protection systems. It fully recognizes their crucial role in and positive contributions in promoting growth and sustainable development. The policy also reflects a recommendation highlighted in the report, namely the need for complementarity between the Global Compact for Migration and the Global Compact on Refugees at the operational level. While they are based on distinct legal frameworks, their mandates have increasingly overlapped in practice, as we have witnessed in Latin America. As needs continue to rise, we hope the forum will provide renewed momentum for the protection of migrants rights regardless of their migratory status, the expansion of regular pathways, and the strengthening of international cooperation in migration governance.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Panama.

Gracias. Thank you, Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Panama thanks the Secretary General for presenting his report on the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.

And we align ourselves with a statement by the migration champion. Countries. International migration continues to evolve in a context that is marked by geopolitical climate, economic and demographic challenges that are increasingly interconnected. For Panama, this reality requires structural, coordinated responses that are rooted in cooperation between states. The report demonstrates that millions of people are migrating in pursuit of opportunities and protection, but also that thousands continue to face serious risks along the way and afterwards as well.

This situation reiterates the urgent need to strengthen an approach that combines effective and orderly management of migration with protection and the guarantee of human rights. From our point of view, we would like to highlight a few essential elements. We believe it is necessary to strengthen the multilateral approach and international shared responsibility. No state can address migration and its underlying courses alone. Regional and global cooperation, the exchange of information and capacity building are all essential in order to ensure effective and balanced migration governance.

It is also important to combat trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling and to strengthen regional and multilateral cooperation to dismantle criminal networks while also protecting victims, especially women and children, who make up a significant proportion of persons in a situation of mobility. We must also highlight the constructive way of looking at orderly and regular migration and also sustainable development in our countries. Panama reiterates its commitment to multilateralism and to the effective implementation of the compact that needs to be balanced, have solidarity with and respect be respectful of the realities of each country. The 2026 forum is an opportunity to renew our collective commitment and to move towards practical solutions while leaving no one behind. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Panama. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

Thank you, Mr. President. Ethiopia alliance itself with a statement delivered by Azerbaijan on behalf of champion countries of the gcm. We thank the Secretary General for its advanced report guiding preparations for the upcoming review process. As a country of origin, transit and destination, Ethiopia recognizes that migration is a complex reality shaped by development gaps, demographics dynamics, climate pressures and evolving global economic conditions. Addressing migration effectively therefore requires strengthened international cooperation that tackles the root cause of regular migration.

We note the report's emphasis on collective action and reaffirm the safe, orderly and regular migration can contribute positively to sustainable development when supported by inclusive economic opportunities and the pathways for regular mobility. In this regard, Ethiopia has exerted efforts and launched various initiatives aimed at job creation, youth empowerment and resilience. Building enhanced partnerships in this regard in countries of origin, transit and destination, particularly in Africa, are therefore critical. The report highlighted the growing importance of integrating migration into national development strategies and expanding pathways for regular migration that responsibility respond to labor market needs and demographic realities. Ethiopia welcomes these emphasis.

Strengthening development opportunities, skill transfer and legal migration channels remains essential so that migration becomes a choice rather than a necessity. Ethiopia shares the concern regarding the continued loss of lives along migratory routes and underscores the need to combat trafficking in persons in the migrant smuggling while protecting the dignity and human rights of migrants, particularly children. At the same time, responses to migration should remain consistent with national laws and the development priorities of Member States. Cooperation with the countries of origin, particularly in Africa, must be strengthened so that migration becomes safe, regular and orderly. Adequate and predictable financing is crucial to ensuring that such cooperation responds to national priorities.

We acknowledge the important role of the United nations system, including the International Organization of Migration, in coordinating and providing system wide support in the implementation of the Compact. Ethiopia remains committed to constructive engagement. As we prepare for the International Migration Review Forum, we look forward for working constructively to ensure a balanced and action oriented outcome. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Ethiopia.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Bangladesh followed by United Kingdom, Uruguay and el Salvador. Bangladesh.

Mr. President, Madam Director General Excellencies and distinguished Delegates. Bangladesh aligns itself with the joint statement by the GCM champion countries. We thank the Secretary General for the comprehensive and forward looking report which provides an evidence based overview of the global migration trends, progress and challenges.

We welcome the recognition that migration remains a key driver of development for countries of origin and destination. The emphasis on regular pathways, fair recruitment skill recognition and reduction of recruitment fees reflect the lives lived realities of millions of migrant workers. We appreciate the acknowledgement of climate change as a driver of human mobility and the inclusion of mobility within climate adoption, loss and damage and just transition framework. Then again, we cannot agree with Director General Amy Pope more. In noting that the progress is not fast enough in this context, allow me to briefly highlight a few points.

First, regular pathways for migration remains skewed towards destination country priorities. Opportunities for low and semi skilled workers remain limited. Without predictable rights based pathways at scale, irregular migration pressures will persist. Second, much more needs to be done to ensure fair recruitment and the evolution of recruitment fees. Enforcement in this regard remains disproportionately weak.

Migrant workers continue to bear high financial and social costs. Third, reintegration financing remains fragmented and insufficient, often treated as a technical exercise rather than a long term development challenge. Fourth, anti migration narratives are on the rise. Such narratives directly translate into restrictive policies, discrimination and erosion of migrants rights. Mr. President, to address these challenges, we are committed to working with all concerned to promote rice based labor mobility schemes, to strengthen skills development programs and to combat anti migration rhetoric.

We look forward to a successful IMRF ahead. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Bangladesh. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of United Kingdom, followed by Uruguay

UK thank you President, Secretary General and Director General Polk. The United Kingdom welcomes the Secretary General's

report on implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. It underscores the scale and complexity of human mobility. In 2024, some 304 million people migrated worldwide. That reality brings challenges and opportunities, but above all it underlines why we need a shared framework.

The Compact remains our best common reference point for international cooperation on migration. It helps us advance practical solutions for origin, transit and destination countries whilst protecting people on the move and respecting state sovereignty.

We look forward to the International Migration Review Forum and to agreeing a consensus based Progress Declaration in advance. We congratulate Luxembourg and Kenya on their appointment as co facilitators and we will engage fully in negotiations. Three specific points.

First, the value of the Progress Declaration will lie in its ability to unite us. So we encourage a process grounded in common purpose solidarity and that stays true to the Compact. Second, the Forum is an opportunity for

States to signal commitment to collaboration and responsibility sharing. To advance the Compact in line with the Secretary General's report, we see opportunities to deepen cooperation against organized Immigration crime to strengthen the UN Migration Multi Partner Trust Fund and to enhance whole of route collaboration to address irregular migration, including tackling drivers, improving border management and supporting fair and dignified returns.

We look forward to these discussions enriched by the engagement of civil society and private sector partners. Third, the UK remains committed to the Global Compact for Migration. We are preparing a voluntary national review of our implementation of the Compact and We remain the second largest donor to the UN Migration Multi Partner Trust Fund, contributing over $11 million since its inception.

I end by recognizing IOM's essential role in supporting States to manage migration and deliver outcomes for migrants. The United Kingdom will continue to champion cooperation that builds trust, respects sovereignty and

makes migration safer and better managed for all. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Uruguay, followed by El Salvador, Uruguay.

Senora Mr. President, Madam Director General of the IOM, Uruguay thanks the Secretary General for presenting his report on the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, which provides a balanced overview of the challenges and good practices of States in this area.

We fully agree that addressing and managing migration comprehensively requires a strengthening of international cooperation. The second International Migration Review Forum in May will be a valuable opportunity for us to renew our commitment to the Global Compact and most certainly to our primary obligation to respect and protect the human rights of all migrants. It is essential to strengthen protection mechanisms, including those for children and women who are particularly exposed to trafficking and exploitation networks, as well as other grave violations of their human rights. Uruguay is pleased to have recently joined the Migration champions. This is a decision that is consistent with our migration policy.

Since the year 2008, the law number 18,250 and its amendments have been in force. That law recognizes the inalienable rights to migration, free family reunification, due process, access to justice, health, Social Security and education for migrants regardless of their migration status. Mr. President, according to the UN report in 2024, approximately 304 million international migrants were recorded. Those figures show the scale of the phenomenon and highlight that in an interconnected world, no state can effectively manage migratory flows alone. Effective and safe migratory governance requires dialogue and shared responsibilities, including among states of origin, transit and destination, as well as a firm commitment to the guiding principles of the international human rights system, including the principles of non regression and non discrimination, which are an integral part of the Compact.

Uruguaya congratulates the Ambassadors of Kenya and Luxembourg on their appointment as co facilitators of the negotiations for the outcome document of the Forum and we reaffirm our support and that we will constructively participate in that negotiating process. We are convinced that migration should not be managed from a place of fear, nor should it be instrumentalised for political purposes, with narratives that boil migration down just to a threat. Rather, it needs to be managed with public policies based on reliable data, with responsibility, international cooperation and a firm commitment to human dignity. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Uruguay.

Now I give the floor to the distinguished representative of El Salvador, followed by Russian Federation, El Salvador.

Mucha gracias. Thank you very much. Mr. Presidents. El Salvador aligns itself with the joint statement delivered on behalf of the champion countries of the Global Compact.

My delegation thanks the Secretary General for presenting his report on the implementation of the Global Compact and we recognize the work of the United Nations Network on Migration and we appreciate the report as a substantive tool that helps guide our deliberations. With a view to the upcoming International Migration Review Forum. The report reaffirms the relevance of the Compact as a comprehensive cooperation framework that allows States to strengthen their migration policies in line with their national priorities, thus promoting orderly migration governance that is based on data and international cooperation. El Salvador has played an active role in the implementation of the compact. In 2020, we became a champion country for its implementation, promoting a all of government and all of society approach that articulates and combines the efforts of state institutions, civil society, academia and the private sector.

In 2022, we participated in the first review forum, taking on six national commitments on which we have made tangible Progress. And in 2024, El Salvador adopted the first National Implementation Plan for the Compact which provides concrete actions for the prevention of irregular migration as well as on labour mobility, the diaspora and the sustainable reintegration of returnees. In the area of data and evidence, we believe it is key to strengthen the formulation of evidence based public policies and in that regard, El Salvador has a national study on human mobility and environmental factors sectors. That's the first one in the region to measure environmental and climate migration in order to improve the conditions for communities that are vulnerable to natural events. Also in 2025, we adopted the Special Law on Benefits and Protection for the Diaspora and Persons in Human mobility Situations, strengthening the institutional framework for protection and providing productive link with our diaspora.

Some of our priorities are continuing to strengthen people's links to their communities of origin, continuing to promote regular migration pathways and guaranteeing the sustainable reintegration of persons in the country. Lastly, as part of our expectations for the forum, we feel that this is an opportunity for renewal and also a starting point for each state to take on new commitments and to strengthen international cooperation, particularly through the exchange of good practices and shared learning. This approach should focus on consolidating concrete, measurable, sustainable actions for states that strengthen migration governance promote shared responsibility.

I thank the distinguished representative of El Salvador. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Russian Federation, followed by Philippines and Colombia.

Thank you, Mr. President. I would like to start by saying that I would like to register my protest against limiting my time by three minutes. Please don't interrupt me as there was no separate decision on limiting speakers time. Now, we have carefully reviewed the report of the UN Secretaries General on the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. And considering that the Russian Federation is one of the global centers attracting migration, an effective and flexible migration policy is of special significance for our country.

We are convinced that competent and well considered decisions in the field of migration are key to ensuring the security of a state to strengthen its economy and inter ethnic harmony within the country. In this regard, the main reference point point for most states is the Global Compact. And individual provisions of the Compact are also reflected in the concept of the migration policy of the Russian Federation. And first and foremost, this concerns the preservation of the principle of openness of Russia to foreign nationals who consider our country as a country with favorable conditions for meeting their economic, social and cultural needs. In addition, priorities given to ensuring transparent mechanism for carrying out labor activities, for creating equal opportunities for obtaining government services in the field of migration, to optimizing administrative procedures and using modern digital technologies.

At the same time, both for Russian and foreign citizens, we're establishing simple and understandable rules, rules that exclude administrative barriers and the cost costs associated with them to ensure the orderly and safe return of migrants. The Russian Federation continues actively using the mechanism which is provided for in the International Agreements on Readmission and the Geography of Readmission. Agreements of the Russian Federation includes 19 international treaties with foreign partners on the issue of labor migration. It's important to emphasize that Russian legislation enshrines the rights of foreign nationals to freely dispose of their ability to work, to choose their type of activity and profession, as well as the right to freely use their abilities and property for entrepreneurial and other economic activities not prohibited under the law. At the same time, we proceed from the understanding that today special attention must be paid to strengthening cooperation between states.

The States which provide and which receive receive labor resources. The processes of relocation and employment of citizens of one state onto the territory of another must be linked with a format of targeted organized recruitment which most accurately meets the goals of sustainable development and is contributing to safe, orderly and regular migration.

Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

May I, Mr. President, take the floor. And as I mentioned in the beginning of the statement, at the beginning of this meeting of ours, we did not make a decision that there will be a time limit on statements. Therefore. Therefore, I ask you to please provide with an opportunity to conclude my statement. And I think it would be right to allow states to express themselves on such an important issue and to do so for as long as they deem necessary.

I'm sorry, I actually don't hold the button in switching off the mic. At the beginning of the meeting, Member States were requested to limit their interventions to three minutes, and that is the protocol that we have been following. I hope you understand. Can we proceed?

Mr. President, I must insist because indeed that notion was read out regarding three minutes, but there was no decision made thereupon and it is our view that it does not make sense to place such restrictions unless there is a specific decision taken on that. There was no such decision. Therefore, I must insist. I do have several further paragraphs that I would like to be able to read out. How many paragraphs do you have?

Only two.

Thank you very much. In modern realities, focused attention is also given to the issue of digitalizing migration processes and the use of modern digital technologies and in IT tools makes it possible to ensure transparency and accounting of migration flows, timely social and legal support for incoming foreign citizens and an increase in the level of protection and the trust on the part of migrants. We are confident that the measures taken by the Russian side in the field of modernizing migration legislation fully correspond to the main guiding principles of the Global Compact and without doubt will have a positive impact on the effect of regulation of migration processes. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Russian Federation.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Philippines, followed by Colombia, Spain and Peru. Philippines.

Thank you, Mr. President. Madame Director General. The Philippines aligns with the statement of the GCM champion countries delivered by Azerbaijan and we have the following comments.

In our national capacity, we express appreciation to the Secretary General for the comprehensive report on the implementation of the gcm. We also thank the IOM for its continued important work. Migration is indeed a reality which has always shaped our world and societies. The Philippines therefore welcomes the report's emphasis on expanding safe, orderly and regular migration pathways. As a country of origin of migrant workers, we recognize that these mechanisms are vital in protecting our citizens abroad.

For the Philippines, we have always known that migration is a vehicle for development. Hence, The GCM is integrated in the Philippines National Development Plan. The Philippine Department of Migrant workers, created in 2022, also aligns its programs and policies towards the fulfillment of the 23 objectives of the GCM and reflects the Philippines pursuit of fair ethical recruitment, decent work, labor mobility and human rights for migrant workers. We are sharing our good practices and experiences with other with other countries in a spirit of south, south and Triangular cooperation. In this regard, we welcome the efforts of Member States in improving coordinated responses to counter trafficking in persons noted in the report and call on all States to prohibit the punishment of victims of human trafficking.

The report also mentions the Migration Multi Partner Trust Fund which was highlighted by the Director General. With the support of the fund in 2025, the Philippines launched a disability inclusive urban disaster risk reduction and multi hazard early warning system. We therefore appreciate its continuation. We also appreciate the Report's focus on gender responsiveness in migration governance. We believe that gender equality in migration policies is crucial and reiterate our commitment to ensure that women migrants are protected from violence and exploitation and empowered as agents of development.

The report also mentions regional achievements related to the GCM in this regard. In Southeast Asia, ASEAN has a checklist for Member States, labor recruiters and employers on fair recruitment and decent employment practices and also guidelines for effective return and reintegration of migrant workers. We look forward to the IMRF in May and call on all Member States to renew their commitment to the GCM and promoting and protecting the rights of all migrants. We believe it is crucial to center our narrative on international cooperation and the GCM to counter negative perceptions of migrants and to uphold the dignity and contribution of migrants to development. The Philippines will indeed cooperate closely with all stakeholders in including the co facilitators to ensure a meaningful and successful imrf.

Thank you very much. I thank the distinguished representative of the Philippines. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia.

Senor Mr. President, Colombia welcomes the presentation of the report on the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. We first of all reiterate our firm commitment to this framework for work and cooperation which constitutes an essential roadmap for strengthening migration governance that is rooted in human rights and shared responsibility.

Colombia has maintained its unshakable commitment to the solidarity and protection of the human rights of migrants. We recognize and value the fundamental role of our diasporas and host communities whose contribution is essential for social issues and sustainable development. We agree with the report regarding the need to eliminate all forms of discrimination and narratives that promote xenophobia, racism, stigmas or the Criminalization of migrants as the host country of the Global Forum on Migration and Development, we highlight the positive contribution of migration to sustainable development. Moreover, it is vital to support the creation, strengthening and expansion of regular migration pathways, as well as promoting a recognition of skills, certification and good practices that facilitate labor mobility and make the most of shared opportunities. We agree regarding the need to strengthen measures to save lives, improve cooperation in search and rescue of missing persons and provide assistance to their families, in line with the recommendations of the Secretary General.

Lastly, we would like to highlight the particular situation of children in a context of migration and we stress that no child should have their development or their dignity undermined as a result of their migration status. Colombia reiterates its will to continue working constructively and in solidarity to make progress on the effective and full implementation of the Global Compact. We are convinced that international cooperation is the only path to towards more humane and more inclusive and sustainable migration governance. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Colombia.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Spain, followed by Peru and Lebanon Spain.

Thank you, Mr. President. Migration is a phenomenon that is inherent to human nature. Human mobility has always existed and it always will. No country nor region can address it in isolation. It can only be managed responsibly and effectively through international cooperation.

It is influenced by demographic change, labor market dynamics, technological transformation, economic disparities, conflicts and instability, as well as by the effects of climate change. At the same time, we are witnessing ongoing irregular mobility, a rise in the number of people dying on irregular migration routes, and the growing sophistication of criminal networks that are preying on human trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling. Since it was adopted in 2018, the Global Compact provides a non legally binding framework based on international law and which fully respects the sovereign right of states to determine their national migration policies. Its fundamental principle based on the integrated balanced 360 degree vision remains as relevant today as it was in 2018. President Spain continues to apply a migration governance approach that is rooted in evidence and data with a all of root perspective and all of society approach.

We combine internal and external work and we work comprehensively and in a mutually beneficial way with countries of origin, transit and destination. With a view to the Progress Declaration, we would like to underscore various aspects. We believe it's necessary to have an increasingly coherent approach to the one UN approach that generates synergies and expands impact. In line with the UN 80 initiative and the humanitarian reset, we need to preserve the balanced 360 degree vision of the Compact, guaranteeing equal attention is paid to expanding regular pathways, the prevention of irregular migration, the fight against the illicit trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling, life saving as well as voluntary effective return and sustainable reintegration. Within a comprehensive all of route approach, we need to strengthen all of government, all of society approaches to migration governance management.

We need to support shared responsibility of all stakeholders in migration governance, including countries of destination, transit and origin. We must strengthen operational cooperation along or throughout migration routes. We must promote a comprehensive cooperative approach to return and readmission focused on voluntary return partnerships with countries of origin. And Mr. President, you can trust in our constructive commitment and our spirit of partnership to ensure that the International Migration Review Forum strengthens international cooperation. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Spain. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Peru, followed by Lebanon Peru.

Gracias, senor. Thank you, Mr. President. Peru welcomes the presentation of the Secretary General's report on the implementation of the Global Compact form Migration. Moreover, we align ourselves with the statements delivered on behalf of the GCM champions. The Secretary General has quite rightly said that migration is not a crisis.

Rather, the crisis is not being able to manage it jointly. When we are unable to do so, we are not only weakening international cooperation, we are also leaving thousands of people exposed to abuse, violence and death along increasingly dangerous routes. Managing it together is not a political option. It is a moral responsibility. Peru, a country of origin, transit and destination, with a diaspora of more than 3 million people, reaffirms its commitment to migration governance that is based on international law and the unlimited respect for human rights.

That commitment was reflected when we took on the presidency of the IOM Council in 2026. Nationally, we have tried to implement the Compact by strengthening our migration institutions, expanding measures for labor inclusion, universal access to health care and social protection, and the economic links with our diaspora, including reducing remittances, costs and the digitalization of consular services. However, the region is facing growing pressures, forced return flows, greater normative restrictions and a worrying reduction in international financing. In the face of this situation, we call for revitalizing multilateralism in the area of migration to highlight the positive contributions of migration and to establish a flexible multilateral fund for middle income countries. Human mobility is a global phenomenon that can only be addressed with shared responsibility and effective solidarity.

Mr. President, Peru hopes that the Forum this year will be a strategic opportunity to renew our commitments, exchange good practices and strengthen international cooperation around the implementation of the Global Compact for Migration. We trust that this space will allow us to build a truly multilateral vision of migration governance that is rooted in shared responsibility, effective solidarity and the acknowledgment that safe, orderly and regular migration is a driver of sustainable development for our countries and our societies. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Peru. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Lebanon, followed by IFRC and Interpol

Lebanon Mr. President, at the outset I would like to thank you for convening this meeting today to discuss and engage on the report of the Secretary General on the implementation of the gcm.

This dialogue today is a platform to seize opportunities and address migration in all its dimensions. In fact, Lebanon grants importance to migration as a country of origin, transit and destination, a country of immigration and host country for migrant workers in Marrakesh. In 2018, Lebanon joined the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration which represents historical step and remains more relevant today than ever despite the challenges the country has been facing. Lebanon has submitted a voluntary national review for the first regional review of the GCM in the Arab region held in 2021 before the 2022 IMRF. Human mobility is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon at the center of my discussions with an estimated 304 million international migrants and 2024.

According to the SG's report, dialogues contribute to shaping discussions on the GCM, especially after the adoption of the Pact for the Future and its annexes and the Compromiso de Sevilla last summer. Mr. President, today we need to shift the narrative on migration and to recognize the positive contribution of migrants, including the remittances and the diaspora as agents of change. We welcome the report of the Secretary General and the key issues that needs to be addressed in the forum this year, especially on the remittances and diaspora engagement. We should highlight the potential of remittances and diaspora investment, including the outcomes of the first International Conference on Financing for Development. Countries need to prioritize partnership with the Private sector Diaspora Engagement and Coordination Mechanism, including digital inclusion and remittance and Jasper investment data.

Therefore, it's crucial to boost the efforts to reduce remittance costs. In addition, it is crucial to reflect on how migration is interlinked with sustainable development and it's a powerful driver. The 2030 agenda highlights that it should be facilitated through implementation of planned and well managed migration policies. Mr. President, a comprehensive approach to human mobility and joint action are needed to achieve real progress in the migration cycle by supporting public institutions and authorities, providing technical support and strengthening human capacities in various areas like data collection. Also, a stronger multilateral cooperation is a must.

Lebanon has expanded cooperation with international financial institutions. The Lebanese Diaspora and development partners as last November Beirut one Investment Conference gathered private sector players, international investors and especially the Lebanese diaspora. Lastly, Lebanon is looking forward to to actively participate and engaging in the second International Migration Review Forum in May in order to enhance cooperation on international migration and the framework of the GCM in the years ahead. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Lebanon.

I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies followed by the interpolation IFRC

Mr. President Director General, IOM the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies supports migrants and displaced people. This is both a strategic priority for IFRC and a daily reality for our 191National Red Cross and Red Crescent societies. The IFRC approaches migration from a strictly humanitarian perspective, responding to needs wherever and whenever they arrive, even presiding the Global Compact Force Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration GCM Our national Red Cross Red Crescent Societies have worked alongside Member States to protect life, prevent and alleviate suffering, deliver essential services and uphold dignity and strengthen resilience. We thank the UN Secretary General for his report on the GCM which takes stock of global implementation ahead of the International Migration Review Forum.

As the report highlights, the IMRF is an indispensable platform that provides space for collective reflection where States can assess progress, identify remaining gaps and challenges, and ensure that policy discussions are grounded in humanitarian realities, development priorities and the lived experience of migrants themselves. Mr. President, the IMRF's progress declaration is not merely a procedural outcome. It is a vital opportunity to preserve, strengthen and recommit to the implementation of the gcm. While the Secretary General's report outlines where progress has been made, too many migrants continue to face unacceptable and preventable risks death, violence, discrimination and exclusion from essential services. Since the IMRF in 22 more than 7,000 people have been recorded as dead or missing along migration routes each year.

Many more are never counted. These tragedies are often the result of policies and systems that leave people with no safe options. As negotiations soon start on the Progress Declaration, the IFRC has three points. First, strengthen resilience in countries of origin, including by investing in sustainable livelihoods and scaling up support for people at risk of displacement due to disasters and climate change. Second, prioritise life saving humanitarian assistance by ensuring migrants can access essential help regardless of status strengthening search and rescue capacities at sea and on land and implementing the Secretary General's recommendation on missing migrants providing humanitarian assistance to migrants in distress through the IFRC's route based approach on migration.

Our humanitarian service points offer neutral and safe spaces for migrants to receive assistance regardless of status. Third, supporting inclusion in countries of destination by guaranteeing safe, non discriminatory access to essential services. Clearly decoupling service provision from immigration enforcement and community engagement. The IFRC stands ready to support Member States as well as the co facilitators over the next few months and beyond. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of ifrc. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the interpol. Thank you. Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. The Secretary General's report underscores a complex migration landscape in which transnational organized criminal networks exploit vulnerability for profit.

The scale of global migration has been accompanied by increasingly sophisticated methods used by criminal networks to facilitate migrant smuggling and trafficking in persons, including by harnessing digital tools and illicit financial systems. These crimes not only violate human dignity, they also enable other criminal activities that weaken the rule of law, such as corruption, document fraud and trafficking in illicit goods. As the world's largest international police organization, Interpol enables law enforcement authorities in 196 member countries to cooperate securely and in real time to combat these transnational threats. Using our secure communication system and shared operational tools and databases, frontline officers are able to identify suspects, locate missing persons, map criminal networks and share intelligence along migration routes. For instance, our database of stolen and fraudulent travel documents plays a key role in helping police identify suspicious persons attempting to cross borders.

These global tools are further reinforced through Interpol's criminal intelligence analysis and targeted capacity building support to strengthen investigations. Beyond enabling cooperation, Interpol also coordinates global police operations that enable our member countries to disrupt trafficking and smuggling networks. Most recently, we led Operation Liberterra coordinated 119 countries to safeguard over 4,000 potential victims of trafficking and conduct 3,744 arrests, including more than 1,800 linked directly to human trafficking and migrant smuggling offenses. Authorities also detected almost 13,000 irregular migrants and opened over 700 new investigations. The operation revealed evolving criminal trends including the issue of trafficking into forced criminality through cyber enabled scam centers, shifting migration routes and the growing interlinkages between trafficking, smuggling, document fraud and money laundering.

These findings reinforce the need for coordinated and sustained global enforcement action to safeguard vulnerable persons and address these sophisticated crimes. Mr. President, as Member States prepare for the second international migration review Forum, Interpol remains committed to advancing these objectives of the Global Compact through coordinated intelligence led police cooperation. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Interpol. We have heard the last speaker for this meeting. I would like to express my appreciation to the Director General of International Organization for Migration and to all participants for their invaluable contribution to this meeting. The informal meeting of the plenary is now concluded. The meeting is adjourned.