International Migrants Day 2023: Theme, History, Significance, Highest Migration Rate

International Migrants Day is celebrated every year on 18 December to celebrate the contributions of millions of migrants worldwide. The day sheds light on the problems faced by migrants around the world. It is an important day for migrants. 

Theme

According to WHO (World Health Organization), the theme for International Migrants Day 2023 is “Act Today for a Better Tomorrow for All: Improving the Health of Migrants to Unleash the Power of Migration.”

History

On 18 December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution on the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. On 4 December 2000, the United Nations General Assembly declared December 18 as International Migrants Day. 

Since then, it has been celebrated every year. The day is observed by all United Nations member states. Migration is a natural process. Conflict, insecurity, economic crisis and the effects of climate change and war can lead to migration.

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Significance

According to the United Nations, migrants are the ”most vulnerable and marginalized” sections. Migrant workers are usually exposed to the potential risk of insecurity and poor working conditions.

International Migrants Day is significant to highlight the plight of the migrant workers. Their contributions, issues, and role of migrants must be highlighted. 

International Organization for Migration (IOM), the principal United Nations agency, celebrates this important day for advocating the rights of migrants. 

The WHO said in the International Migrants Day 2023 report that “migrants bring a multitude of skills that can benefit and enrich host countries and communities.”

Highest migration rate

In 2023, the highest migration rate is in the United States. Migrants mostly reside in the United States, according to the World Population Review. 

More than 15% of the 331.4 million people who live in the United States were born in another country. Mexicans account for over 11 million (around 25%) of the immigrants in the US.