International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Multilation (FGM): Safeguarding the Rights of Migrant Women and Girls
Today, the world observes the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Multilation (FGM), a practice which is internationally recognized as a human rights violation, given its severe consequences on the health, well-being, and dignity of women and girls. While FGM is a global issue, it is crucial to understand its intersectionality with migration in order to address the unique challenges it poses to the rights and safety of women on the move. FGM is...
The Economic Power of Migration
Migration is a phenomenon that has existed since the beginning of human history, shaping societies and cultures into what we see today. As governments across the world increase restrictions on human mobility and intensify xenophobic rhetoric, it is essential to understand the positive impact of migration, particularly on the economies of host countries. A common narrative surrounding migration falsely asserts that foreigners hurt national workers, burden taxpayers and public services, and threaten public safety. However, numerous...
THROUGH THEIR EYES: Migrant Narratives from the Rainbow Nation
In the heart of Cape Town, at Bertha House in Mowbray, an impactful event unfolded on the 18th of January 2024, bringing together diverse voices, experiences, and narratives. The event, titled "THROUGH THEIR EYES: Migrant Narratives from the Rainbow Nation," was a collaborative effort aimed at shedding light on the journeys, challenges, and successes of migrants living in South Africa. Organized by the Migration for development and equality (MIDEQ), in collaboration with the Royal Holloway University of London, ICT4D Collective,...
Exploring Regional Bodies in Africa and their Impact on Migration
The African continent is host to various regional bodies working towards common goals, including addressing the challenges of migration. In this blog post, we have identified key regional organizations in Africa and explore how they contribute to shaping migration policies, fostering cooperation, and upholding the rights and dignity of migrants and refugees. African Union (AU): At the heart of African collaboration is the African Union, a continental organization aiming to promote unity and solidarity among African nations. The AU's involvement...
The Global Refugee Forum 2023
The Global Refugee Forum 2023, which took place from December 13 to 15 in Geneva, Switzerland, met in an effort to address the escalating challenges faced by the growing number of refugees worldwide. Co-convened by Colombia, France, Japan, Jordan, and Uganda, and co-hosted by Switzerland and UNHCR, the Forum gathered more than 4,200 participants from 168 countries, including over 300 refugee delegates. The Forum aimed to support the practical implementation of the objectives outlined in the Global Compact on Refugees:...
Footprints in the Desert Sands: Nurturing Resilience and Identity Amidst Loss – A Reflection on the ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape
At the end of a long day of journeying through the spectacularly beautiful desert landscape somewhere between Botswana and Namibia, we were worn out by the sadness of a message of the passing of a beloved cousin. We stepped into the surprising shade of a stone and thatch building: it was the ǂKhomani Cultural Landscape, a World Heritage Site out there between the horizontal red dunes of the Kalahari. The interior of the building enveloped us in large wall murals...
