The meeting was convened to discuss the measuring of sustainable development goals and targets related to migration. Attention was drawn towards the disproportion in recruitment and employment between migrant and non-migrant workers. Mr. Hovy argued that the task for 2017 is to desegregate such disparities.

In measuring targets related to human trafficking, Mr. Fowke cited targets 5.2 and 8.7 which address violence against women and children, respectively. He advocated for a global indicator that can apply to entire populations and aid in desegregation. Moreover, in order to adequately measure statistics of human trafficking, we must ensure the inclusion of hidden and undetected cases of trafficking victims. Right now, there is no existing methodology to accurately count the number of victims worldwide. He also noted that in terms of the prevalence of populations at risk, the focus of the SDGs on only beneficiaries does not accurately define the overall at-risk population. We need a numerator but also a denominator. We need a percentage and not just a total number.

Next, H.E. Mr. Eliasson recognized that large movement of people has become a prominent feature in the emerging global landscape. Through the 2030 commitment to confront challenges and improve lives, states must leave no one behind and help those farthest behind. Currently, the latter includes migrants, refugees, and displaced persons. H.E. noted the current negative regard for migrants that has pervaded throughout the International Community. We must move towards a positive global role and an appreciation for the beauty of diversity in societies. He concluded by calling on all states to uphold the provisions of the 1951 Refugee Convention and 1967 protocol. Managing and protecting the dignity and rights of migrants irrespective of their statuses could help bring an end to poverty and an increase in global prosperity.

Meeting: Fourteenth Annual Coordination Meeting on International Migration (organized by the Population Division, Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA))   

Date/Location: Friday, February 26th, 2016; 10:00-13:00 and 15:00-18:00; Conference Room 11

Speakers: Ms. Yongyi Min, Chief of SDG Monitoring Unit, DESA; Mr. Martin Fowke, United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime; Mr. Bela Hovy, Moderator; H.E. Mr. Jan Eliasson, Deputy Secretary General

Written By: WIT Representative Emilie Broek

Edited By: WIT Representative Alex Margolick