Baku, December 19, AZERTAC

IOM Azerbaijan celebrated International Migrants Day at the Museum Center in Baku on Wednesday, together with Government partners, UN agencies, Diplomatic Core, NGOs, and representatives of civil society and media.

Speaking at the event, which also featured the film "The Lost Boy" as a part of IOM’s Global Migration Film Festival, UN Resident Coordinator Ghulam Isaczai highlighted the dangers of irregular migration. “Since 2000, more than 60,000 migrants have died on the move. And of course, behind every number is a person – a woman, a child, a man, who simply dream for what any of us dream – opportunity, dignity and a better life,” said Ghulam Isaczai. In his opinion national priorities on migration are best achieved through international cooperation.

Vladimir Gjorgjiev, Chief of IOM Mission in Azerbaijan in his opening remark highlighted the importance of International Migrants Day in terms of focusing and informing the public on the problems, but also on the positive aspect of the of migrants. “Migrants represents over 270 millions of today’s world population, and this number is growing every day, with different dynamic around the globe. Today, since year 2000 we are celebrating the International Migrants Days, as designated and recognized by the UN and we are hearing the voice of these migrants, but also the voice of our member states, and their unite voice is saying- prosper and migration management, for the benefit of all,” said Vladimir Gjorgjiev.

Deputy Head of the State Migration Service Parviz Musayev, appreciated the cooperation between state and international organizations in the field of migration including migration services, legislative and procedural areas and noted that economic development and stability in the state contribute to protection of migrant’s rights. “As a result of rapid socio-economic development, political stability, as well as protection of the rights and freedoms of migrants in the country, the Republic of Azerbaijan has become a country of destination in terms of labor migration,” said he.

At the end of the event, a film titled "The Lost Boy" featuring hard life of teenage migrant was screened within the International Migration Film Festival organized by IOM.

During the event, video clips and photos of migrants living in the country and abroad were shown, and participants were presented with eco-friendly packages prepared by IOM Azerbaijan.