A/71/285
Assembly on addressing large movements of refugees and migrants in September
2016 all testify to that interest.
42. Better global migration governance would be advantageous for all States
because they cannot deal with a global phenomenon on a unilateral, bilateral or even
regional basis alone. Enhanced governance would allow for a better sharing of
responsibilities on the part of States associated with migration. More cooperation on
migration governance does not mean less territorial sovereignty.
43. While the Global Forum on Migration and Development provides a useful
platform for informal discussions between States, it should not be seen as a
substitute for discussions about migration at the United Nations. More frequent
high-level dialogues could lead to closer linkages and synergies between
discussions within the United Nations and those outside.
44. The work of the Global Forum on Migration and Development has improved
to include more focus on human rights, using the expertise of the Global Migration
Group and the United Nations human rights mechanisms to a greater extent and
allowing for enhanced participation by civil society. It could further benefit from
more concrete outcomes, for example through the adoption of a forma l outcome
document at each meeting and the establishment of a mechanism for follow -up and
monitoring of the implementation of its recommendations. Participation by civil
society organizations could be further enhanced by increasing their involvement to a
full day, with their deliberations being taken up during the course of the meeting,
and ensuring their participation at all round tables during days reserved for the
participation of Governments.
45. The High-level Dialogue on International Migration and Development is an
important opportunity to reflect on the mainstreaming of human rights into all
aspects of the migration debate. States should consider holding more frequent high level dialogues, for instance every three years, which should be interactive a nd
action-oriented, each with a rights-based negotiated outcome document that would
include a plan of action and a mechanism for follow-up and implementation
monitoring.
46. Human rights must be a cross-cutting issue that informs all discussions at the
High-level Dialogue, and, as outlined in the 2013 report of the Special Rapporteur
(see A/68/283), States should consider raising issues such as:
(a)
Decriminalization of irregular entry and stay;
(b) Development and implementation of rights-based alternatives to
detention, especially for children and families with children;
(c)
Awareness-raising of the human rights of migrants;
(d) The fight against xenophobia, discrimination and violence against
migrants, in acts and speech;
(e) Refraining from referring to migrants as “illegal” regardless of their
migration status;
(f) Effective protection of the human rights of vulnerable groups, such as
unaccompanied children, families with children, persons with disabilities and
elderly migrants;
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