Ethiopia has been making significant efforts to address irregular migration. In recent years, the Ethiopian government has implemented various strategies and policies aimed at curbing the flow of irregular migration and addressing the root causes of this phenomenon. From economic empowerment programs to enhanced border control measures, Ethiopia is taking proactive steps to tackle this issue head-on.
One of the key pillars of Ethiopia’s strategy to curb irregular migration is its focus on economic empowerment. By providing opportunities for job creation, skills development, and entrepreneurship, the government aims to address the underlying economic factors that drive individuals to migrate irregularly. Through initiatives such as the national job creation efforts, the country is working to create a more conducive environment for its citizens to thrive and succeed at home.
In addition to economic empowerment, Ethiopia has also prioritized enhancing its border control measures to prevent irregular migration. These efforts have led to a significant reduction in the number of individuals attempting to migrate irregularly from Ethiopia.
Most importantly, the government recognizes the importance of addressing the root causes of irregular migration, including conflict, poverty, and lack of opportunities. To this end, by investing in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social services, it is striving to create a more stable and prosperous society where individuals feel compelled to stay rather than seek opportunities elsewhere. This holistic approach aims to not only prevent irregular migration but also to improve the overall well-being of Ethiopian citizens.
Furthermore, regional and international partnerships are important to combat irregular migration. By collaborating with organizations such as the African Union, the United Nations (UN), and the European Union (EU), Ethiopia is able to leverage resources, expertise, and best practices from around the world to strengthen its efforts in addressing this complex issue. Through mutual cooperation and joint initiatives, Ethiopia is working towards a more coordinated and effective response to irregular migration.
Recently, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs and International Organization for Migration (IOM) have signed a 5-year agreement that enables the country to mitigate the challenges of irregular migration and related activities.
The agreement was signed between Women and Social Affairs Minister Ergogie Tesfaye and International Organization for Migration (IOM) Chief of Mission Abibatou Wane-Fall.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ergogie said the Ministry has been working closely with different partners to mitigate the challenges of irregular migration.
According to her, the agreement focuses on data management of returnees and reintegration in areas of preventing irregular migration and protecting migrants in vulnerable situations.
The government of Ethiopia has been making a significant change to ensure well governed migration, protect and assist migrants in a vulnerable situation, the Minister noted.
Ergogie also explained that the government has adopted various policies, directions and legal frameworks with the development of organizational systems and human resources, including the preparation of national referral mechanisms and reintegration of returnee migrants to facilitate implementation of regular migration and to tackle the problems of irregular migration.
IOM Chief of Mission Wane-Fall said that the collaboration with the Ministry has always been rooted in ensuring the safety, dignity and well -being of migrants.
She added that the agreement would enable to solidify the partnership of the organizations and lays the ground to turn their shared vision into reality.
The cooperation agreement will support the implementation of a comprehensive five year joint strategic plan rooted in the thematic priorities, including preventing irregular migration, protecting of migrants in vulnerable situation, migration information management (data and research), capacity development and system strengthening and coordination and partnership.
Accordingly, young people are leaving their homes in search of better opportunities, often risking their lives in the process. Thus, understanding the root causes behind this scenario is fundamental to ease the challenges.
Therefore, one of the most effective ways to combat irregular youth migration is by providing access to quality education and training programs. By equipping young people with the skills they need to succeed in the local job market, it is possible to reduce their incentive to migrate in search of better opportunities.
In addition to education, creating job opportunities and entrepreneurship programs can help to keep young people in Ethiopia. By supporting small businesses and startups, we can empower young people to build successful careers and contribute to the local economy. Encouraging entrepreneurship can also foster innovation and creativity within the community.
More importantly, building strong community support systems is essential in preventing irregular youth and women migration. By providing young people with a sense of belonging and connection to their community, we can reduce the appeal of migrating to unknown destinations. Engaging local leaders, schools, and organizations in supporting youth initiatives can also help create a network of support for young people.
In sum, the country’s endeavors to curb irregular migration demonstrate its commitment to addressing this multifaceted challenge. Thus, it is making significant progress in reducing irregular migration and creating a more sustainable future for its citizens. By continuing to invest in these efforts and collaborate with partners globally, Ethiopia is well-positioned to effectively manage and mitigate the impacts of irregular migration in the years to come.
Addressing irregular youth and women migration requires a multifaceted approach that tackles the root causes of the issue. By investing in education, creating job opportunities, strengthening community support systems, and collaborating with international partners, it is possible to curb irregular migration and create a better future for the new generations.
BY TEWODROS KASSA
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 30 MAY 2024
