ISLAMABAD: The United Nations in Pakistan officially unveiled the Pakistan United Nations Network on Migration (UNNM) on Monday, aiming to address issues related to human trafficking and improve overall migration management in the country.
This initiative represents a major step forward in fostering a unified and cooperative strategy for migration governance, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts to combat the interconnected problems of migrant smuggling and human trafficking.The launch aligns with global commitments such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration (GCM). Every year, hundreds of Pakistanis attempt to leave the country through illegal channels in search of better opportunities, often risking their lives in dangerous journeys.
The event, hosted by UN Resident Coordinator Mohamed Yahya, also marked the inauguration of Pakistan’s first-ever Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund (MMPTF). This joint initiative supports the country’s efforts in migration regulation, governance, and anti-trafficking measures through a comprehensive, whole-of-government and society approach.
The MMPTF is designed to aid the implementation of the GCM and stands out as the only pooled funding mechanism dedicated solely to migration, accessible to all nations. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM), serving as the coordinator and secretariat of the UN Network on Migration, will play a central role, with the UN Resident Coordinator in Pakistan acting as the network’s chair.
The new network aims to strengthen partnerships within the UN system, promote policy coherence, and integrate migration issues into broader development strategies. Addressing the gathering, Yahya emphasized that “the creation of this network is a clear reflection of our collective dedication to ensuring migration is safe, orderly, and dignified for all.”
This platform is expected to transform the migration narrative, amplify a shared voice, and foster innovative solutions to complex mobility challenges while safeguarding the rights of migrants. A video message from Jonathan Prentice, Head of the UN Migration Network Secretariat, congratulated Pakistan on its ongoing leadership in enhancing global migration policies.
The event also featured the story of Moazzam Ali, a Pakistani migrant who recently returned after a difficult journey to Europe, emphasizing that “life compels us to move, but our journeys should be safer, more respectful, and dignified.”A high-level panel discussion, moderated by Dr. Nasra M. Shah of the Lahore School of Economics, focused on “Strengthening Whole-of-Government Migration Governance amidst Complex Mobility and Global Challenges,” with participation from officials from various ministries, the National Commission for Human Rights, IOM, and civil society groups.
The event concluded with an official ceremony reaffirming Pakistan’s renewed commitment to multi-stakeholder collaboration in migration governance, aiming to foster safer, more humane migration pathways across the country
