The Philippines advocates for the integration and participation of migrants at the Global Forum on Migration and Development

The Philippines called for creating avenues for the participation and social integration of migrants in their countries of origin and destination, during the thematic event on culture, narratives and human mobility of the Global Forum on Migration and Development (GFMD) held on June 26, 2023 at the National Museum of Immigration History in Paris, France.

Participating in a thematic panel on narratives and public perceptions of displacement and migration, Deputy Permanent Representative Kristine Leilani R. Salle highlighted the critical role of government in cultivating a balanced narrative on migration, including recognizing the positive contributions of migrants in their host communities.

Ms. Salle reminded the audience, made up of government officials, diplomats, civil society organizations and members of the academic world, that migrants contribute to improving not only the economy, but also the cultural diversity of their host communities.

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“We don’t always have to associate migration with crises and emergencies,” Salle said. Likewise, she said: “Migrants can and do contribute positively to the economy of their host communities, and we have to change the narratives and recognize this.”

Ms. Salle also urged the full social integration of migrants in both their countries of origin and destination, which can be achieved by providing avenues for their meaningful participation and leadership.

migrants contribute to improving not only the economy, but also the cultural diversity of their host communities

Ms. Salle shared that the Philippines guarantees the right of Filipino migrants to participate, with special attention paid to the role of migrant women and non-governmental organizations that work with migrant women.

The Philippines is co-chairing GFMD Roundtable 5 with Canada on “enhancing public perceptions of migration through narratives, culture, emotion and rational discourse”.