Global governance of migration

Latin America’s successful experiences show it is possible to address migration from a human rights perspective

Global governance of migration should not limit, impede, persecute or criminalize people who leave their country of origin in search of a better life. This was the key message of a side event organized by CELS (Center for Legal and Social Studies, of Argentina), by the Fray Matías de Córdova Human Rights Center (of Mexico) and by Conectas on Wednesday, June 21, during the 35th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva.

The event “Local perspectives and global challenges for the defense of migrants’ rights” occurred after a round of preparatory meetings for the Global Compact on migration – a UN-led initiative to respond to global crises and the new migration flows they generate.

The goal of the organizations was to demonstrate, based on concrete examples from Latin America, that the debate on global regulation of migration can and should incorporate a human rights perspective.

The event was attended by UN authorities, such as the special rapporteur on contemporary forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance, Mutuma Ruteere, and the advisor on migration and human rights at the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Pia Oberoi.

The experts warned about the naturalization of xenophobia and discrimination around the world, which has resulted from the false association between immigration and terrorism and has been compounded by financial crises. They also drew special attention to migrants in situations of social vulnerability.

Also participating in the event were Paulo Amâncio, former coordinator of CRAI (Reference Center and Shelter for Immigrants), Diego Lorente, director of the Fray Matías de Córdova Human Rights Center, and Pétalla Timo, the representative of Conectas in Brasília. The panel was moderated by Raísa Cetra, of the international team of CELS.

Pétalla Timo participated by video and spoke about the approval process of Brazil’s new Immigration Law, which was signed by President Michel Temer in June and which, despite 20 presidential vetoes, was commended by organizations that work in the field. According to Timo, the new law is important for “changing the paradigm” of national immigration policy and for having been drafted with the broad participation of civil society.

“At its core are the principles of equality and non-discrimination in the enjoyment of all human rights and access to public services,” she said. “Of course, adopting a new legislation is one thing, but implementing it is a whole other challenge. So it remains to be seen how Brazil will effectively put in place mechanisms and procedures, as well as training for the authorities and public agents, to realize this goal in practice.”

Watch the video of Pétalla Timo broadcast during the panel: