Migration With Dignity (#WithDignity) is the theme of 2018 International Migrants Day. Over the past year, millions of people around the world left their homes and embarked on dangerous journeys in search of safer and better lives. Some succeeded in establishing in new communities, but for most, the long pursuit of safety and sanctuary still continues.
According to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) the number of international migrants has grown to more than 258 million people in 2018, with another 40 million currently internally displaced by war, conflict, climate-related disasters and natural hazards. IOM’s data show that close to 3,400 migrants and refugees lost their lives in 2018.
Supporting vulnerable migrants, refugees and other displaced persons is a long-standing tradition of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies engage to address humanitarian concerns of vulnerable migrants throughout their journey, in countries of origin, transit and destination.
“Migration is a powerful driver of economic growth, dynamism and understanding. It allows millions of people to seek new opportunities, benefiting communities of origin and destination alike” says António Guterres (UN Secretary-General).
Since 2016, the South African Red Cross Society (SARCS) and (ICRC) have been providing a Restoring Family Links telephone service to vulnerable migrants in Musina, bordering Zimbabwe. The service aims to ensure that migrants are able to contact their families and tell them they are safe and well. Other local Red Cross activities include emergency relief and advocacy campaigns to assist migrants and displaced persons who are vulnerable.
Support our efforts and donate online: https://redcross.org.za/donate/
