09 October 2020, New York - Deputy Permanent Representative Kira Christianne D. Azucena reiterated call for the international community to adhere to the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration to leave no one behind, particularly during this global crisis.

 

09 October 2020, New York - Speaking at the Second Committee General discussions on international migration and development, Deputy Permanent Representative Kira Christianne D. Azucena highlighted the role of migrants in the COVID-19 response and recovery and their significant contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

She noted that the Philippine migrant sector is one of the worst hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, threatening the lives and livelihoods of thousands of overseas Filipinos and their families.

“The pivotal role played by Filipino migrant workers, particularly Filipino seafarers, health care workers and household service workers, has been keeping the economy afloat with the continued discharge of services, and bringing in inward remittances to the country, and these Filipino migrant workers are continuing to work in the frontlines in the fight against the pandemic, keeping people and societies safe and healthy,” Ms. Azucena said her statement.

She also shared that the Philippine Government launched a massive and unprecedented repatriation program for more than 345,000 overseas Filipinos that needed to come home due to the pandemic. The Government was able to bring back half, including seafarers who were stranded because of COVID-19 restrictions, and the repatriation program is still on-going.

She underlined that the year 2020 provides an opportunity for the international community to rise to its commitment to leave no one behind, particularly during this global crisis; and called on the international community to adhere to the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration and strengthen cooperation to promote and protect the rights of all migrants, regardless of their migration status.

Taking into account the limitations and restrictions resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Nations Second Committee has decided to conduct general discussions of agenda items in online informal meetings in lieu of traditional in-person meetings.

Click here to read the full statement and here to view the video.