27 November 2013 – Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs Jesus I. Yabes highlighted the human rights approach of the Philippines to migration in a side event attended by representatives of United Nations (UN) Member States, international organizations and non-government organizations.

Chairing the side event entitled “Sharing Responsibility to Protect the Human Rights of Migrants’ Undersecretary Yabes said that” “…working together with other countries, relevant international organizations such as the UNHCR, and the civil society, can help encourage closer and more effective consultation and cooperation to close gaps in migrant protection. More regular and safe avenues for migration should be promoted. And effective mechanism for adequate skills matching and recognition should be institutionalized.”

The Philippines, in cooperation with the alliance of NGOs on Crime Prevention and Crimial Justice and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, hosted the side event held at the UN Office in Vienna. The six panelists, representing different sectors, all called for the promotion of safe and humane migration, as well as the respect for the human rights of migrants, regardless of their migration status.

Ambassador Ayoob Efrani of Afhganistan described how his government addresses the situation of Afghan refugees and internally displaced persons. Deputy Permanent Representative Cecilia Villanueva Bracho of Mexico shared Mexico’s inititiatives both at the national and international levels, in assisting migrants. Bishop Franz Scharl talked about assistance of the Diocese of Vienna to migrants and refugees, including survivors of the Lampedusa incident.

Ms. Ruth Schoeffl of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) mentioned UNHCR’s programs in helping refugees from different countries, such as those fleeing the Syrian conflict. Ms. Irene Jancsy, Communications Director for Medicins Sans Frontieres, offered some concerete measures in helping migrants. Lastly, Ms. Napuli Paul Langa, a migrant from Sudan, spoke passionately about the situation of refugees and migrants.

The side event was held on November 11 at the margins of the ongoing Working Group on Smuggling of Migrants under the framework of the Smuggling of Migrants Protocol of the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime. Undersecretary Yabes headed the Philippine delegation to the Working Group. END