Migration has been a long ingrained issue throughout human history, shaping and reshaping societies, cultures, and economies. Current trends suggest that migration will continue to increase in the future.
Migration in search of work, known as international labor migration, has increasingly become a livelihood strategy for both women and men, with many countries involved as the country of origin, destination, or transit.
When properly managed, international labor migration can serve as an engine of economic growth and development for all parties involved. Migrant workers benefit from skills acquired during their migration experience, and countries of origin greatly benefit from remittances and the reduction of their unemployment rate.
However, many migrant workers, particularly those with irregular status, suffer human and labor rights violations, facing even worse problems and challenges. With the rise in the volume of migration over time, the need to regulate this activity has increased.
Before leaving home, migrants are expected to pay large sums to facilitate the migration process. If third parties are involved, the cost generally increases, putting migrants’ safety at risk. Trafficked persons suffer physical and emotional abuse, rape, threats against themselves and their families, document theft, torture, debt, unlawful confinement, and even death.
Even after reaching their final destinations, many migrants endure poor working and living conditions and engage in low-paying jobs. They often work in unsafe environments, are denied basic labor rights, and face culture shock, language barriers, and discrimination in host countries.
Deportation of migrants has severe consequences for the migrants, their families, local communities, and sending states. Economic studies show that deported workers are less likely to benefit from migrating, as they rarely have the opportunity to earn income, save money, gain skills, or education.
The rapid return of large numbers of migrant workers to their countries of origin within a short time period has tremendous negative consequences, as returning migrants quickly shift from being the primary provider for a family to becoming a dependent.
This adjustment is often difficult and stressful for both the individual and family members, with families bearing an additional burden on their scarce economic and financial resources until the returnee reintegrates and establishes a livelihood.
Social isolation and marginalization are other frequently mentioned difficulties for deportees or involuntary returnees. Migrant returnees who have lived for many years abroad may find themselves with limited social networks and lacking up-to-date knowledge on how things are done locally.
The shame of returning empty-handed is almost unbearable for most of the returnees and some of them choose to isolate themselves. Furthermore, many returnees suffer from health problems, post-traumatic stress, depression or other mental health issues.
The complications the returnees undergo may become severe in circumstances where there is a lack of treatment, or in the presence of social stigma and isolation, or if their families and local community fail to understand their experiences.
The Ethiopian Herald recently interviewed Nezha Alaoui M’hammdi, the Ambassador of Morocco to Ethiopia, discussing bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Morocco and the issue of Arab migrants.
Please tell me about the situation of Arab immigrants, especially in Ethiopia?
Thank you very much. We recently celebrated Arab Expatriate Day in Addis Ababa, organized by the Arab Ambassadors Council in the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco. This event aimed to recognize and honor the role of Arab migrants worldwide, particularly in Ethiopia. They assist official diplomats in strengthening relations with the host country, Ethiopia.
Arab expatriates contribute to investment, trade, sharing expertise, and fostering connections between countries. They serve as ambassadors for their respective nations, working to enhance relationships with Ethiopia. Recognizing their efforts is crucial for strengthening official ties and expanding trade and investment opportunities.
International Migrants Day is celebrated globally, including among Arab communities. While there are no significant differences in the challenges faced by migrants, the Arab world recognizes this day to honor their contributions. The Kingdom of Morocco has been a leader in managing migration, providing rights and support to migrants living within its borders.
The Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco initiated the celebration of Arab Migrants Day to acknowledge the important role migrants play in strengthening relationships with Ethiopia. This commitment aligns with Morocco’s history of supporting migrants and promoting safe and respectful migration practices.
Regarding immigration dynamics, migration is a natural phenomenon driven by various factors, including economic, political, and environmental conditions. African countries, such as Ethiopia and Morocco, are at the crossroads of different regions, influencing migration patterns. Each nation has its policies to address migration challenges.
Would you briefly tell us the challenges that many African countries are facing in terms of controlling migration? What is the experience of your country in this regard?
In terms of controlling illegal migration, African governments face the challenge of addressing root causes while respecting the rights of migrants. Migration is a complex issue influenced by global trends, social media, and economic disparities. Collaborative efforts between countries of origin and destination are essential for managing migration effectively.
Morocco has implemented successful strategies to protect migrant rights and promote co-development initiatives. The country’s experience serves as a valuable example for others seeking to address migration challenges.
As Ethiopia and Morocco continue to strengthen their relationship, mutual cooperation and dialogue will enhance bilateral ties and promote shared prosperity.
The recent visit of Moroccan officials to Ethiopia focused on preparing a joint commission to review bilateral cooperation and launch future projects. This collaboration demonstrates the growing relationship between the two countries and the potential for further development and cooperation.
What can you say about the dynamics of immigration in general, and the handling of Arab immigrants here in Ethiopia?
I cannot speak about the treatment of migrants in Ethiopia as it is a national policy, a sovereign policy, so it is not my role to interfere in that. But I can discuss migration in general. We witness different historical steps in migration. Initially, people move in search of a better life abroad, always looking for greener pastures. Due to peace and security situations, especially on our continent, we now have climate change pushing people to relocate, creating many reasons.
We started with economic reasons and sometimes political reasons for people moving abroad. Now, there are even more reasons for people to migrate. That being said, we cannot stop migration as it is a natural human tendency, with mobility always present.
Looking at Africa, there is a significant amount of internal migration within Africa and from Africa to Europe or other parts of the world. Ethiopia, like Morocco, is at the crossroads of many regions and continents, situated in the eastern part of Africa near Asia and Europe, creating migration routes. Ethiopia has chosen its national policy to address this phenomenon.
While you were marking Arab Migrants Day, you gave recognition to some migrants. What was the reason behind this recognition, and what was the criterion?
Recognizing outstanding Arab migrants during the celebration involved designating nominees from each embassy. This process ensured that deserving individuals were acknowledged for their contributions to strengthening Arab-Ethiopian relations.
What should African governments do to control their young generation from illegal migration?
I have no lessons to give to African governments, but I can share some thoughts and experiences from my country. Migration cannot be controlled as it is a natural phenomenon. However, we see a high awareness among African youth, driven by social media and globalization. African youth are ambitious, envisioning a better future for themselves and their countries, seeking recognition internationally.
To address this, countries must provide opportunities for work and talent expression, making their citizens proud. European countries are not taking significant steps to retain African youth in their home countries, contributing to the ongoing migration. Migration should be managed rather than seen as a threat, addressing the root causes in both the country of origin and the destination.
Morocco organized the first conference on co-development in 2006, inviting the European Union to discuss root causes of migration, emphasizing the importance of shared responsibility between origin and destination countries.
What is the best practice of Morocco to share with others in terms of protecting migrants’ rights?
Morocco has no lessons to give but shares its experiences with others, recognized under the leadership of His Majesty the King. Morocco is eager to share its practices with those interested, focusing on protecting migrants’ rights.
Ethiopia-Morocco relations are growing, with high-level officials visiting Ethiopia. Could you tell me more about that?
A delegation from the Moroccan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Ambassador Fouad Yazourh, visited Ethiopia and met with State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, to discuss bilateral relations. Both countries are confident in the growing relationship and mutual benefits.
The purpose of the visit was to prepare for a joint commission between the two countries in the near future to review bilateral cooperation and launch future projects.
As you rightly said, the bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Morocco has been showing progress especially in the past few years. The agreements signed to strengthen the relationship between the two countries in 2016 were among the engines that strengthened bilateral relations between the two countries.
The discussions and agreements between the two parties have helped to strengthen the partnership, in addition to expanding the scope of cooperation between institutions in various fields, including sports, culture and industry.
The historical relationship between Ethiopia and Morocco has not transformed into trade and investment cooperation to the extent desired. Thus, the countries must work to strengthen cooperation in these spheres.
A fertilizer factory project is being implemented in Dire Dawa in line with the agreement signed between the Moroccan Fertilizer Company and the pertinent Ethiopian party. Morocco wants to expand its investments in the field of fertilizer production and increase its activities in various fields, including manufacturing and agriculture. In this regard, my embassy is working to involve Moroccan investors in the field of investment in Ethiopia.
Ethiopia and Morocco have a good relationship in the field of education; the country provides educational scholarship opportunities for Ethiopian students in various fields in Morocco. The coming period of cooperation between the two countries is bright and there is a mutual desire to transform the relationship into a strategic partnership.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
The celebration of Arab Migrants Day highlights the valuable contributions of migrants to strengthening diplomatic relations and fostering economic growth. By recognizing their efforts and promoting dialogue, countries can work together to address migration challenges and promote mutual understanding and cooperation.
Thank you, Ambassador
It is my pleasure.
BY GIRMACHEW GASHAW
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 1 JUNE 2024
