Côte d’Ivoire champions human-centered migration governance at UN forum
The Côte d’Ivoire has taken a prominent role on the global stage by actively participating in the second session of the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) at the United Nations headquarters in New York. Through this strategic engagement, the nation reaffirms its commitment to a migration governance model built on cooperation, human dignity, and sustainable development.
The forum, dedicated to tracking the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration adopted in 2018 in Marrakech, brings together nations to address critical issues surrounding global human mobility.
Leading the Ivorian delegation, Dr. Hinin Moustapha, Director-General of the National Population Office (ONP), represented Dr. Souleymane Diarrassouba, Minister of Planning and Development. He presented the country’s achievements in migration management and shared best practices during high-level discussions with fellow signatory states.
Ivorian migration policies: progress and innovation
In his address, Dr. Moustapha highlighted Ivory Coast’s advancements across several key areas:
- Enhanced migration data systems: Strengthening the collection, analysis, and dissemination of migration statistics to support evidence-based policymaking.
- Reduced vulnerabilities: Implementing targeted measures to protect migrants from exploitation and discrimination.
- Promotion of inclusion: Combating xenophobia through awareness campaigns and institutional reforms.
- International cooperation: Fostering partnerships with origin, transit, and destination countries to address migration challenges collectively.
A cornerstone of this strategy is the 2025 national migration survey, a landmark initiative designed to position Ivory Coast as a leader in migration data governance across Africa. The survey aims to provide policymakers with reliable, disaggregated data to inform inclusive and effective migration policies.
From challenges to opportunities: a forward-looking vision
The Ivorian delegation emphasized that migration should not be viewed solely as a security or social burden but as a catalyst for economic, cultural, and human development. By integrating migration into broader national strategies, Ivory Coast seeks to harness its potential for shared prosperity.
The country’s approach is rooted in its long-standing tradition of hospitality, with a focus on:
- Human dignity: Ensuring the rights and well-being of all migrants, regardless of their status.
- Solidarity: Encouraging international collaboration to address root causes of migration and support vulnerable populations.
- Data-driven decision-making: Leveraging accurate statistics to design policies that reflect real-world needs.
Through its participation in the IMRF, Ivory Coast underscores its role as a proactive advocate for a balanced, humane, and sustainable approach to global migration governance.
