The International Organization for Migration (IOM) commends the efforts of Southern Africa parliamentarians in addressing the negative narrative surrounding migration and making significant strides towards effective migration governance. Recognizing their vital role as elected leaders, over 100 parliamentarians from Namibia, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and Malawi have actively engaged in advocating for regular, safe, and orderly migration, aiming to maximize its positive impacts while minimizing the potential negative consequences.

The International Organisation for Migratiion Development Fund (IDF) worked closely with these parliamentarians, creating an enabling environment that allows them to contribute meaningfully in migration governance. By possessing a comparative advantage as elected leaders, they have the power to influence strategic directions and make informed decisions that impact migration governance. The areas of focus for the parliamentarians include migration and development, harnessing the potential of the diaspora, evidence-based policies, improved border management, facilitated labor migration, successful reintegration of migrants, and enhanced cross-border cooperation.

Through their active participation, Southern Africa parliamentarians have achieved significant milestones in promoting effective migration governance. These accomplishments include:

1. Raising Awareness: Increasing awareness among parliamentarians and the public about the importance of migration governance, its impact on national development, human rights, and social cohesion.

2. Policy Development: Advocating for the development of comprehensive and coherent migration policies and legislation aligned with regional and international standards, ensuring the protection of migrants' rights, facilitation of safe and orderly migration, and promotion of integration.

3. Legislative Review and Reform: Encouraging regular review and reform of existing migration-related laws to ensure their effectiveness, relevance, and alignment with international best practices.

4. Stakeholder Engagement: Promoting inclusive and participatory decision-making processes by engaging with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, academia, and affected communities, in the formulation and implementation of migration governance policies.

5. Regional and International Cooperation: Advocating for enhanced cooperation at the regional and international levels, including within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), to address transnational migration challenges, share best practices, and promote coordinated responses.

Migration is an inherent part of our humanness, and in the ever-evolving global landscape, migration governance plays a crucial role in achieving national development objectives and upholding human rights. The Southern African parliamentarians' commitment to promoting safe, regular, and orderly migration sets a commendable example for other regions.

IOM echoes the parliamentarians' call for inclusive and anticipatory migration policies that address both inward and outward movement. Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of parliamentary Standing Committees on migration governance to ensure continuous monitoring, evaluation, and adjustment of migration policy to align with international treaties and agreements. Public hearings conducted by these committees will directly involve citizens and their representatives in the decision-making process.

Parliaments, as active agents, play a key role in reforming migration policy, and collaboration between Parliament and the Executive is crucial in implementing the Global Compact for Migration. By working together, we can develop sound and responsive migration policies that meet the demands and aspirations of both countries of origin and destination. This collaboration aligns with the objectives of the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030, fostering inclusive and peaceful societies on a liveable planet.

IOM remains committed to supporting Southern Africa parliamentarians in their efforts towards effective migration governance. 

For information contact Wonesai Sithole wsithole@iom.int