Murdoch University Celebrates International Migrants Day

Connecting Across Borders: International Migrants Day Conference Highlights Shared Responsibilities

Bangkok, Thailand – As⁢ the world marked International Migrants Day on December 18, experts, policymakers, and⁤ advocates gathered in Bangkok for a two-day conference exploring the complexities of migration in the Asia⁤ Pacific ⁣region. Hosted⁤ by Chulalongkorn university’s Asian Research Center for Migration and Murdoch University, ⁤the‍ “Connectivity: navigating Shared Responsibilities under Growing Complexities” conference ⁣brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the International Labor Organization (ILO), UN Women, and other multinational institutions.

The conference, which coincided with the 50th ⁣anniversary of Chulalongkorn University’s Institute of Asian Studies, delved into critical ⁣issues surrounding migration, including the⁢ impact of climate change, urban ecology, and‍ the experiences of children, youth, and aging migrants.

“This conference is unique as it brings together so many different voices working in the field ⁣of migration,” said Dr. Pyone Myat ⁣Thu, a key organizer.”We get to hear from UN agencies, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners, all working towards a common goal: to improve the lives‍ of migrants.”

Michiko Ito, Deputy Head of Operations at ⁢IOM thailand, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of reframing the narrative around migration. “Migration should not ⁤be seen as a crisis, but as an⁢ opportunity,” Ms. Ito stated. “If well managed, it is indeed an adaptation strategy that can drive resilience and development. We need to ensure that the rights and wellbeing of migrants remain at the heart of policy discussions and decisions as ⁣we address ⁣the intersection of climate change and migration.”

The conference served as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for safe and humane migration governance,rooted in ⁤solidarity,partnership,and respect for human rights.As UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated on International Migrants Day, “We must recognize the contributions of migrants and ensure ‍their rights‍ are protected.”

Murdoch University, with its tri-national campuses in Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and Singapore, is committed to supporting migrant communities and building thriving, multicultural networks. The university celebrates the profound positive impact migrating students and staff have on its diverse and vibrant community.

Connecting Migrants, Crossing Borders: A Conversation with Dr. Pyone Myat Thu

NewsDirectory3.com – Following the recent “Connectivity: navigating Shared Responsibilities ⁢under Growing Complexities” conference in Bangkok, we sat down with⁢ Dr.Pyone Myat Thu, a key organizer of the event, to discuss ⁤the pressing issues surrounding migration ⁢in the⁣ Asia Pacific region.

NewsDirectory3.com: The conference brought together a⁢ diverse range of stakeholders. What⁣ were some of the key takeaways from these discussions?

Dr.⁤ Pyone Myat Thu: The conference highlighted the crucial need for multi-sectoral collaboration in addressing the complexities of migration. We saw UN agencies, ‍researchers, policymakers, and‍ practitioners come together, all committed to improving the ⁣lives of migrants. This spirit of ⁢collaboration is essential to finding sustainable solutions.

NewsDirectory3.com: Michiko Ito, Deputy Head of Operations at IOM Thailand, emphasized reframing the narrative around migration. Can you elaborate on this ⁤theme?

Dr.⁤ pyone Myat Thu: Ms. Ito’s keynote address brought a powerful message: ‍migration shouldn’t be seen solely as a crisis⁢ but as an opportunity. When effectively managed, migration can be a driver of resilience and ⁤advancement.

NewsDirectory3.com: The conference‍ focused on the intersection of climate change‍ and migration. Can you tell us more about this connection?

Dr. Pyone Myat Thu: Climate change is increasingly displacing communities, forcing⁣ people to migrate in search of safe havens and livelihoods. We need to recognize this link and ensure that climate ⁤migrants are⁣ not overlooked.

NewsDirectory3.com: What are some concrete steps⁤ that can be taken to improve the lives of migrants?

Dr. Pyone Myat⁢ Thu: This requires a multi-faceted approach. It means strengthening legal ‍frameworks to protect migrant rights, promoting safe and ⁢legal migration⁣ pathways, combating xenophobia and discrimination, and supporting integration ‍efforts in host communities. Ultimately, it’s about building a more⁣ inclusive ‍and equitable world for all.

NewsDirectory3.com: ⁢ Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Thu. The conference provided a‍ valuable platform for open dialog and collaboration, paving the way for more humane and sustainable migration policies.