Marking Youth Day, UN spotlight rights and potential of young migrants

UN, 13 August 2013: Marking International Youth Day, United Nations officials on Monday highlighted the plight as well as the contributions of young migrants, who often face hard conditions away from their homes.

“It is important to emphasize the positive contribution young migrants make to societies of origin, transit and destination – economically and by enriching the social and cultural fabric. Most work hard to earn a living and improve their circumstances,” Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in his message for the Day.

“The remittances they send to support families in their home countries are a major contributor to economies worldwide,” Ban said. “When they return home, young migrants often enhance development by applying skills and ideas acquired abroad. And, in many cases, women are empowered through migration as they gain financial and social independence.”

Following a recommendation from the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth, the General Assembly declared 12 August to be International Youth Day in 1999. The theme of this year’s Day is “Youth Migration: Moving Development Forward.”

Of the annual total of some 214 million international migrants, young people constitute more than 10 per cent, yet too little is known about their struggles and experiences. They are often accused by communities and politicians of taking jobs from local people, exposing them to further risk of discrimination. In other cases, young people left behind by migrating parents face psychological and social challenges and greater vulnerability.

“Poverty, crowded and unsanitary living conditions and the challenges of finding decent employment are regular features of the migrant experience. These challenges are exacerbated by the current global economic and financial crisis,” Ban said.

“In transit and at their final destinations, many young migrants face equal or greater struggles, including racism, xenophobia, discrimination and human rights violations. Young women, in particular, face the risk of sexual exploitation and abuse,” he added.

Mr. Ban urged Member States to consider the issue of youth migration during the High-Level Dialogue on International Migration and Development, which will be held in October during the General Assembly session.Source: UN