Migration with Dignity: A Conceptual and Policy Framework
46 Pages Posted: 11 Aug 2020 Last revised: 12 Dec 2024
Date Written: August 23, 2020
Abstract
Migration involves moving from a country of origin to another country in pursuit of a better life, and is a growing global phenomenon. The UN International Organization for Migration estimates that nearly a quarter of a billion people migrated in 2018 alone, nearly three-quarters of whom are workers, one-half of whom are women, and nearly one in nine of whom are children. Migration comes with a host of dangers, challenges and risks, beginning with systemic corruption of government authorities and officials; trusting third parties facilitators, and modes of transport; guarding oneself, friends and loved ones from abuse and criminal behavior along the journey; and, avoiding mistreatment at the point of entry and exploitation afterward.
Reflecting human dignity’s role in the rule of law can help. Human dignity recognizes the equal worth of each person without regard to gender, race, wealth, political status or any other societal signifier. Dignity is inherent, immutable, inalienable and universal. Human dignity encapsulates the notion that every person has equal worth. Dignity is recognized in myriad international and regional treaties, thus garmenting international human rights law with common dignity rights thread. It is also guaranteed by the constitutions of 160 nations.
This report examines how human dignity under law affects various aspects of migration, including the right to equality and non-discrimination, freedom of movement, the right to personal safety and security, the right to live with dignity and well-being, access to services, and civil and political rights. As we shall see, migration with dignity is an idea whose time has come.
Keywords: migration, dignity, dignity rights, dignity law, refugee, worth
JEL Classification: K23
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation