The number of people migrating in the world is said to be
increasing at a very fast rate, and this was the basis for the 4 December 2000
UN General Assembly proclamation of 18 December as International Migrants Day.
On 18 December 1990, the General Assembly adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.
Many countries in the world since then have been observing the day through the dissemination of information on the human rights and fundamental freedoms of migrants, and through the sharing of experiences and the design of actions to ensure their protection.
The Gambia, over the years, has been a peace haven for many migrants, who keep visiting the Smiling Coast of Africa for various reasons.
On the other hand, many Gambians also do migrate to other parts of the world for various reasons.
This, therefore, reminds us that migration is a natural phenomenon that cannot be ignored.
International migration makes a helpful contribution to development in countries of origin and countries of destination, provided it was supported by the right policies.
However, it must be emphasized that respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of all migrants are essential in order to reap the benefits of migration.
Over the years, many Gambians have left the country for other countries, and have been contributing immensely to the development of the motherland through remittances to their families.
There is an absolute need for strengthening international cooperation on migration bilaterally, regionally and globally.