Every Step Matters: Celebrating Migrants’ Contributions and Advocating for Safe Pathways

On 18 December, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Haiti joins the global community and the Government of Haiti in celebrating International Migrants Day, a moment to honor the resilience and contributions of migrants while advocating for their rights and well-being.

Migration is a universal human story – one of striving for safety, opportunity, and a better future. It shapes individuals, families, and societies, bringing about cultural exchange, economic growth, and development. Yet, behind the potential of migration lies a complex reality. Conflict, economic disparities, climate change, and political instability drive many journeys today, with too many forced into unsafe and irregular pathways.

In Cap-Ha?tien, a story of transformation illustrates how migration can intersect with community development. The restoration of Parc Saint Victor, the city’s largest stadium, is more than a construction project; it represents a collaborative effort to rebuild lives and foster social cohesion. IOM worked with local authorities to rehabilitate this cherished public space. The project’s workforce included deported migrants like Jean, who gained valuable skills and income through his involvement. “This job has given me a chance to rebuild my life here,” Jean says. Public spaces like Parc Saint Victor not only reduce tensions and boost local economies but also create a sense of belonging for all members of the community.

These stories of resilience and community renewal highlight the broader vision of this year’s International Migrants Day theme, “Every Step.” Creating safe and regular migration pathways is essential for protecting migrants and enabling them to contribute meaningfully to societies.

IOM Haiti remains committed to address the drivers of irregular migration, root causes of forced displacement, and supporting the durable reintegration of deportees and displaced people. Initiatives like the restoration of Parc Saint Victor demonstrate how migration can be managed to benefit individuals and communities alike.

As the world observes International Migrants Day, we are reminded that every step counts – whether it’s a migrant taking their first step toward a new life, or a community extending a welcoming hand. Here and there, building for the future.

This International Migrants Day, let us celebrate migrants and reaffirm our collective commitment to ensuring their rights, dignity, and safety at every step of their journey. Everyone can play a role in spreading awareness by sharing stories or supporting initiatives that protect migrants.