Global Compact on Migration: Opening of Intergovernmental Negotiations
– As delivered –
Statement by H.E. Mr. Miroslav Lajčák, President of the 72nd Session of the UN General Assembly, at Global Compact on Migration: Opening of Intergovernmental Negotiations
Excellencies, co-facilitators, distinguished delegates, dear colleagues,
I want to start, today, by thanking our two co-facilitators, Ambassadors Camacho and Lauber. There is no denying the time and effort they have put into this process. They have listened carefully throughout all of our consultations and stocktaking. Often, when you went home for the evening, their work was just beginning.
But, that work now turns to you. Because, today, we start the process of negotiating a Global Compact on Migration. Although our co-facilitators and I will be here, to convene and support, everything now lies in your hands.
Before we begin, I want to make three main points.
First, I want to stress that migration is a fact of life. That is the way it has always been. And that is the way it will always be. Regardless of what we think or say about migration, it is here to stay.
We do not have the choice to accept, or reject migration. Because, it is here. It is happening, in every corner of the world. It is, as I said, a fact.
But we do have another choice. We can resist this fact, or we can embrace it.
We can put our heads in the sand. We can tell ourselves that we will deal with it tomorrow. We can defer action to another time -another generation – another crisis.
Or, we can take action. We can plan ahead. We can put a system in place. And we can, at last, respond to a global phenomenon with a global solution.
My second point is that the stakes are high. We made a public promise in 2016. And people all over the world are waiting for us to fulfil it.
Also, before we begin, I want to remind us that the eyes of the world are watching. And, the credibility of the United Nations is at stake.
Because, this is the Organization we – ourselves – built to respond to global trends and challenges. And this is the Organization that holds the key for a better future – for everyone.
Therefore, if we reach a strong agreement, we will all win. Even if we do not get exactly what we wanted. Because we will solidify the role of the United Nations in the world. And this is a role that will play out to benefit us all.
So, we cannot see these negotiations as a way to strengthen our own positions. We must see them as an opportunity to strengthen our own United Nations.
To give this IGN process a chance, we must be open – we must be flexible – and we must be willing to compromise.
Excellencies, dear colleagues,
I thank those who have already pledged support and taken action. I encourage all countries and stakeholders to help fund this appeal. In so doing, let us also ensure that the sums pledged are accessible.
The recovery does not only need charitable commitments. There are opportunities for investments and partnerships that will benefit investors and contribute to the long-term sustainable development of these countries.
The need is great and so our support must be greater. The cause is just, so let us do justice with our response.
Thank you.
