Protecting Migrant Women's Rights: A Call to Action on International Migrants Day

On December 18th, the United Nations marks International Migrants Day. Women and girls are especially vulnerable to violence and the violation of their rights when migrating to other countries. The international community has a responsibility to implement the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration and to adopt gender-responsive policies and strategies that protect all migrant women and girls, regardless of their migration status.

In recent years, many people have been forced to migrate due to war and conflict. During their journey, women are often exposed to gender-based violence, sexual exploitation, kidnapping, or human trafficking. Even if they reach their destination, women often face discrimination in the workplace, lacking basic protections and earning low wages. Being an immigrant can also mean limited access to essential services, such as healthcare, putting vulnerable groups like pregnant women at even greater risk.

Migrant women are a crucial part of the economic and social development of host countries. Expanding regular migration channels is crucial to help protect their basic human rights and provide them with opportunities for fair, dignified employment.

The basic human rights of all migrant women, regardless of their documentation status, must be protected and upheld. The international community must not remain neutral in the face of the violence and human rights violations they endure and should address their challenges through gender-responsive policies.