African Nations Meet in Egypt Ahead of Global Migration Forum

17 African countries gather to align priorities and consolidate positions for the upcoming International Migration Review Forum.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 5:50am

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The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) co-hosted a Ministerial Meeting of African Champion Countries for the implementation of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM). The meeting brought together ministers and representatives from 17 African nations to review progress, reaffirm shared commitments, and prepare a unified African voice for the upcoming International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) in New York.

Why it matters

As one of the most active regional groupings within the GCM Champion initiative, Africa's leadership and cooperation on migration issues is crucial. The meeting aimed to ensure African priorities and realities are reflected in global migration policies and frameworks discussed at the IMRF.

The details

The event served as a high-level platform for the African countries to align priorities, consolidate shared positions, and reinforce the continent's leadership in advancing evidence-based, development-focused migration policies and practices. Delegations reviewed progress since the first IMRF in 2022 and reaffirmed that most African migration occurs within the continent, underscoring the need for balanced narratives.

  • The Ministerial Meeting took place on April 2, 2026.
  • The upcoming International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) is scheduled for May 2026 in New York.

The players

Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs

The co-host of the Ministerial Meeting, representing Egypt's commitment to ensuring a coherent and unified African voice at the upcoming IMRF.

International Organization for Migration (IOM)

The co-host of the Ministerial Meeting, and the organization that stands ready to support Member States in ensuring African priorities are reflected throughout the IMRF process.

17 African GCM Champion Countries

The participating nations that came together to align priorities, consolidate shared positions, and reinforce Africa's leadership in advancing migration policies and practices.

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What they’re saying

“Egypt views the GCM as a comprehensive framework that addresses migration in all its aspects, safeguards the interests of all stakeholders, and respects national sovereignty, while enhancing its development impact.”

— H.E. Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Affairs

“Migration affects every country on this continent, and African governments are tackling it seriously - expanding pathways for workers, strengthening cross-border cooperation, and building systems that work for people.”

— Amy Pope, IOM Director General

What’s next

The African GCM Champion Countries adopted a Joint Ministerial Statement and a Joint Pledge for IMRF 2026, reaffirming their shared commitment to the GCM and outlining priority areas such as expanding regular pathways, enhancing data systems, and improving return and reintegration systems. These commitments will guide Africa's unified position and engagement at the upcoming IMRF in New York.

The takeaway

This meeting demonstrates Africa's strong regional cooperation and leadership on migration issues, as the continent seeks to shape global migration priorities and cooperation frameworks in line with its own priorities, realities, and aspirations. The unified African voice will be crucial in ensuring the IMRF reflects the continent's needs and perspectives on managing migration for sustainable development.