To commemorate International Migrants Day held on 18 December annually, the Quaker United Nations Office (QUNO) is launching a practical guide as part of its Regional Migration Reviews publication series. International Migrants Day acknowledges the important contributions of migrants globally and recognizes the challenges they continue to encounter. On 18 December 1990, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly adopted a resolution on the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of their Families.

QUNO has just published ‘Migration Justice: A Practical Guide for Migrants and Other Stakeholders Using the Upcoming Regional Reviews to Safeguard Human Rights’. This offers guidelines on why and how to participate in Regional Reviews of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM).GCM is an intergovernmentally negotiated agreement, prepared under the auspices of the UN, which covers international migration in a holistic and comprehensive manner. Viewing the GCM as a useful tool for human rights-based migration governance, QUNO works with states, the UN, civil society and migrants to ensure its ambitious, effective, and human rights-based implementation. Grounded in the belief of the inherent worth of every individual, QUNO’s Human Rights and Refugees Programme has a focus on upholding the human rights for all migrants, regardless of their status. QUNO seeks collaborative approaches and advocates for accessible UN processes that centre the lived experiences and expertise of migrants.

QUNO’s guide is designed to simplify and enhance the accessibility of the Regional Reviews, in an effort to promote engagement from all stakeholders, particularly migrants themselves. In the guide, QUNO explains why engaging with the process is important and outlines avenues of engagement, with ideas for action. It also provides logistical information and useful resources.

QUNO recognizes that no process is perfect, but the Regional Reviews in 2024 and 2025 provide an opportunity to improve on the previous reviews. Participatory approaches that promote greater inclusivity and meaningful migrant participation can be a route to ensuring the full enjoyment of human rights for all, including migrants, regardless of their status.