Chair, distinguished colleagues,
Let me start by expressing our appreciation for the inclusive and transparent process that characterized the negotiations on the Progress Declaration.
Migration has increasingly become a divisive issue, both nationally and internationally.
At the same time, many migrants, especially women and children, face marginalisation and exploitation.
Moreover, many people die or go missing while migrating along dangerous routes. This is unacceptable.
We therefore need an informed debate, and approaches to migration management considering the interests of both individual migrants and the member states concerned.
In this regard multilateral exchange and cooperation are key.
The stock-take we are now concluding provides an excellent basis for defining new strategies and workplans to achieve our joint objectives under the Global Compact.
Norway takes part in this IMRF with two main priorities:
- To improve migration management and stem irregular migration
and
- To reduce vulnerability and attend to the needs of migrants in precarious situations.
While there is no quick fix to either of the two, we do believe the Route Based Approach provides a meaningful framework.
Countries of origin, transit and destination need to cooperate much more closely.
We need to shift the narrative towards a grand bargain.
Funding, technical capacity and political will must all come together in new ways to address the multiple challenges posed along the migratory routes.
People who are considering migrating should be well informed about available legal pathways, as well as about the risks associated with irregular migration.
This is why we support initiatives such as local Migrant Resource Centers in countries of origin and transit.
Moreover, when migrants arrive in Norway, we invest significantly to ensure social and economic inclusion.
We also have policies in place to combat work related crime, social dumping and discrimination.
In concluding, we call on all States to continue advancing their implementation of the Global Compact in a balanced and effective manner.
I thank you.