International Migrants Day

Categories:: Cause
Tags:: Awareness International
Where:: International
Date change rule:: Every December 18
Holiday emoji:: 🌍

International Migrants Day on December 18 reflects on the profound impact and challenges faced by over 281 million people globally who have migrated. This day calls for greater understanding, protection of human rights, and the recognition of migrants’ invaluable contributions to societies worldwide. Advocate for inclusive policies and support organizations aiding migrant communities.

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History
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FAQs
Importance
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Expected International Migrants Day Deals

On International Migrants Day, the focus shifts from commercial deals to crucial fundraising and advocacy efforts for migrant rights and welfare. Organizations like the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) often launch campaigns seeking donations to support their humanitarian work. Financial service providers such as Western Union and MoneyGram, which are vital for remittances, may highlight their services that connect families across borders. Technology companies like Google or Microsoft sometimes offer pro-bono support or grants to NGOs working with migrant populations. Retailers might feature products from migrant-owned businesses or donate a portion of sales to relevant charities. We encourage you to visit the official websites of these organizations to find out how you can contribute directly to their initiatives.

Platform Guide for International Migrants Day

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #InternationalMigrantsDay. Share impactful stories, policy updates, or statistics to raise awareness.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #InternationalMigrantsDay. Share resources, host a live discussion, or highlight local migrant community events.

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #InternationalMigrantsDay. Discuss workplace inclusion, skills recognition, and the economic contributions of migrants.

International Migrants Day Hero

António Guterres

António Guterres, the ninth Secretary-General of the United Nations, has been a vocal advocate for migrant rights throughout his career. Prior to his current role, he served as the UN High Commissioner for Refugees from 2005 to 2015, overseeing a period of unprecedented displacement. His leadership has consistently emphasized the importance of safe, orderly, and regular migration, advocating for policies that protect vulnerable migrants and harness their contributions to society.

History of International Migrants Day

Migration has many factors enforcing it on a global level. These stem from human necessities for safety, dignity, and peace. It is never an easy decision to leave home, especially when the journey ahead is extremely dangerous and, at times, fatal.

Although the day was made official in the year 2000, the observance of this day goes as far back as the year 1997 when December 18 was marked as the day to campaign for the respect, rights, and protection of migrants by several Asian migrant organizations.

On account of the ever-increasing number of migrants around the world, on December 4, 2000, the United Nations General Assembly declared December 18 as the day for International Migrants. A decade prior to this, on the same day, the Assembly initiated the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.

During the first-ever summit focused on large-scale movements of migrants and refugees on September 19, 2016, a fixed set of commitments — known as the New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants — was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly to enhance the safety of such displaced persons. This declaration reiterates the essentiality of the international protection regime and pledges by member states to improve the migration system for people on the move.

The U.N.’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development also features migration-related goals. These include access to education, which will lead to better opportunities and a better quality of life.

International Migrants Day timeline

1965

Hart-Celler Act

The U.S. adopts a new immigration policy, which reunites immigrant families and gives preference to skilled workers.

1997

In Solidarity with Migrants

A network of Asian migrant organizations begins celebrating December 18 as the International Day of Solidarity with Migrants.

2012

First Syrian Refugee Camp

Following the beginning of the Syrian conflict, the first camp for refugees is set up in Jordan.

2020

Flight

Families continue to flee violence and destruction in north-west Syria.

International Migrants Day FAQs

When is International Migrants Day?

International Migrants Day 2026 falls on Friday, December 18. This annual observance recognizes the contributions and challenges of migrants worldwide.

How many migrants are there globally?

According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), there were approximately 281 million international migrants globally in 2020. This figure represents about 3.6% of the world’s population.

Why was International Migrants Day established?

International Migrants Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly on December 4, 2000, to commemorate the adoption of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families on December 18, 1990.

What is the difference between a migrant and a refugee?

A migrant is a person who moves from one place to another, often for economic reasons or to improve their life. A refugee, as defined by international law, is someone who has fled their country due to a well-founded fear of persecution.

How To Observe International Migrants Day

Learn more about migrants
In today’s modern times, migrants and refugees still face a lot of difficulties settling into new places. Educate yourself on the problems they face and learn more about what the United Nations and other influential bodies are doing about it.
Read a story
Heartbreaking, humbling, and happy stories of immigrants are truly an eye-opener.
Make a donation
Humanitarian organizations are always accepting donations for the ongoing refugee crisis around the world. Every small contribution can reap great benefits for those it will go towards.

5 Facts About Refugees

1% of the human race is displaced
With conflicts becoming more complex, global displacement is at an all-time high.
68% of all refugees come from only five countries
Syria has the largest refugee count in the world, followed by Venezuela, Afghanistan, Sudan, and Myanmar.
Drop-in arrivals to Europe
The number of refugees making their way to Europe has significantly decreased.
Approximately 95% of resettlement needs are unfulfilled
Resettlement requirements are not being met by host states, raising great urgency.
40% of refugees are children
An estimated 34 million children and young people have been displaced from their homes around the world.

Why International Migrants Day is Important

No one is left behind
Every human life is precious, and their dignity and rights must be safeguarded at all costs. Humanitarian efforts to ensure no migrant is left behind are crucial.
Doing our part
The migration crisis can hit any region at any time in the future. Everyone must play their part on an individual level to ensure the right mechanisms are in place to welcome migrants and refugees.
For humanity’s sake
Showing some humanity shouldn’t be limited to a designated day. Such annual observances really focus and highlight issues and challenges on a larger level through awareness generated by mainstream media and organizations.