New Zealand Red Cross welcomes government’s decision to support Global Compact for Migration

New Zealand Red Cross welcomes the government’s decision to support the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM). The Compact is a rare opportunity to develop a new approach to migration that is more effective and humane, protects dignity and saves lives.

The Compact aims to ensure that all people migrating, especially separated and unaccompanied children, have access to humanitarian assistance and protection.

People on the world’s migration trails are exposed to sexual abuse, exploitation, separation from family members, and death. This is preventable and unacceptable, and states have an obligation to drive change.

New Zealand Red Cross General Manager Migration, Rachel O’Connor, says: “By supporting the Global Compact for Migration, New Zealand is demonstrating both international solidarity and commitment to humanitarian principles that are core to who we are as Kiwis and what we value.”

She adds: “We are hopeful that that this indicates a new way of working globally to protect vulnerable migrants. We must care for people who have been affected by war and conflict. It cannot only be up to a few countries to respond – it is the responsibility of the global community. New Zealand has capacity and so we should do our part.”

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