Migration Makes Sense if it is Regular, Orderly, and Safe
- Migration, when approached responsibly, brings benefits to both individuals and societies. Regular migration refers to legal and well-regulated movement that supports economic growth, fills labor shortages, and creates opportunities for those seeking a better life. It ensures that migration is conducted through formal channels, benefiting both the host and sending countries.
- Most importantly, safe migration prioritizes the well-being of migrants, protecting them from exploitation, human trafficking, and life-threatening journeys that often accompany irregular migration. By ensuring safety at every step, we safeguard human dignity and foster a more humane approach to global migration.
- Orderly migration focuses on controlling the flow of people through clear processes, legal frameworks, and international cooperation. This prevents chaos and illegal movements, ensuring that migration happens in an organized and managed way.
Dialogue Between Europe and Africa
- A constructive, forward-looking dialogue between Europe and Africa is essential for addressing migration in a way that respects both regions' shared interests. While historical, economic, and social complexities can strain the relationship, open and respectful conversations can tackle the root causes of migration—such as poverty, conflict, and climate change.
- Instead of engaging in a "blame-game," this dialogue emphasizes that migration is not the sole responsibility of any one region. It is a shared challenge that requires cooperation on both sides. By focusing on solutions such as development aid, economic investment in Africa, and the creation of legal migration pathways, Europe and Africa can work together to create a future where migration is managed in a balanced, mutually beneficial way.
Misconceptions on Both Sides
- To date, we possess two distinct “Migration Monologues,” one originating from Africa and the other from Europe, both resonating with the narratives propagated by international organisations that are heavily influenced by Western ideologies and significant misunderstandings.
- There are many stereotypes and misunderstandings about migration. In Europe, migration can often be politicized, seen as a threat to jobs, security, and national identity. In Africa, there may be perceptions of Europe as a land of easy opportunities, overlooking the challenges of integration or the reality of migration policies.
- Correcting these misconceptions through education, media, and public debate is essential to creating a fair and accurate narrative on migration.
Bringing Positions Together
- This part of your mission speaks to finding common ground. Migration is a complex issue, but there are shared interests between Europe and Africa—whether it’s addressing demographic imbalances, labor market needs, or humanitarian responsibilities. Your mission could focus on fostering this middle ground where productive, mutually beneficial solutions can be discussed and implemented.