“Children, Migration and Family”

Ambassador Gómez Camacho
Excellencies
Dear Colleagues
Ladies and Gentlemen:

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the closing of this special exhibition. First, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the Permanent Mission of Mexico for the organization of this event. As I am sure your recent discussion in the Committee on the Rights of the Child has confirmed, the impact of migration on children is a complex and multi-faceted issue. Given its importance, I am especially pleased that we are able to showcase this subject matter at the Palais des Nations – the home of the Human Rights Council.

An estimated 214 million people currently live outside their country of origin, many having moved for a variety of reasons in which the search for protection and the search for opportunity are inextricably entwined. Migration affects every region of the world, and many countries are now simultaneously countries of origin, destination and transit. While for some migration is a positive and empowering experience, far too many migrants have to endure human rights violations, discrimination, and exploitation.

Of these 214 million international migrants, it is estimated that around 33.3 million, or close to 16 per cent, are under the age of 20. Within this context, millions of children are likely to face similar hardships due to their migration status or that of their parents. They may be left behind when parents migrate, they may migrate alone, or may be returned to their countries of origin and separated from their parents. They also may face discrimination or exploitation in transit or destination countries.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child and other human rights instruments protect the rights of these migrant children. And a range of actors, including the Human Rights Council, OHCHR, other UN agencies, funds and programmes, as well as NGOs, governments and various other partners, work tirelessly around the world to promote and defend these rights.

Through this exhibition we hear the voices of these children. Through their words and their artwork, we see clearly the impact migration has had on their lives. And we are reminded of the role of the international community in protecting and promoting their rights – and making their voices heard.

Thank you very much.