ISLAMABAD: The National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR) and the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) on Wednesday agreed to strengthen cooperation and collaboration on the initiatives relating to promotion and protection of human rights of the migrants, especially those in vulnerable situations.

The two sides signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that signified the commitment of both organisations to prioritise the well-being and the rights of migrants, recognising that while migration in the context of globalisation brought significant opportunities, it was critical to facilitate safe, orderly and regular movement of people.

In a statement issued by the NCHR, under the MoU, NCHR and IOM Pakistan would engage specifically to implement joint activities aimed at generating evidence and research, improving awareness, outreach and provision of policy advice, in line with priorities of the government of Pakistan.

NCHR Chairperson Rabiya Javeri Agha, highlighting the lack of rights for migrants and the dangerous journeys they undertook stated, “The Greek migrants boat disaster was a heart-wrenching reminder of the risks people take in their desire to seek a better future. With over 2,000 lives lost in the Mediterranean in this year alone, irregular migration demands our immediate attention. Through collective efforts, we can work towards a safer and more compassionate approach to migration, one that upholds the well-being and dignity of those in search of a better future. The recently signed MoU between NCHR and IOM will play a crucial role in advancing this goal.”

IOM Chief of Mission Mio Sato, while expressing her concerns about the situation of vulnerability and risks faced by the migrants, in particular women and children conveyed, “The signing of this MoU comes extremely timely, noting the evolving migration trends and the dire need for evidence-based solutions. NCHR and IOM have been collaborating on various advocacy activities, however, having a formal partnership will allow us to do more within our respective mandates and ensure that our support is targeted towards those most in need.”

Published in Dawn, October 19th, 2023