New York, 20 September – The 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79) offers an opportunity to place migration at the heart of global discussions towards a future grounded in sustainable development. Under the theme "Unity in Diversity for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Everyone, Everywhere," the International Organization for Migration (IOM) will actively engage in discussions to demonstrate how human mobility can drive progress in these areas.  

Heads of State and Governments will converge at the Summit of the Future to tackle global challenges, aiming to advance peace, security, and sustainable development. A key expected outcome of the Summit is the adoption of a Pact for the Future with two annexes: a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration for Future Generations. These agreements are expected to emphasize the need for international cooperation to maximize the benefits of migration while safeguarding the rights of people on the move.  

“As we navigate unprecedented global shifts, such as climate change, urbanization, and digitalization, migration must be recognized as a crucial part of the solution,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope. “We welcome the renewed commitment from states to enhance cooperation for safe, orderly, and regular migration.”  

Regular migration pathways are vital for addressing labor shortages, promoting development, and adapting to the evolving dynamics of migration influenced by climate change, conflict, and urbanization. These pathways should be designed to address the drivers and structural factors affecting future generations.  

IOM’s Global Goodwill Ambassador and renowned actress, producer, director and activist, America Ferrera, will join the delegation to spotlight key issues such as migration, women’s rights, and amplifying underrepresented voices.  

"My story is a migration story,” said America Ferrera. “As the daughter of Honduran immigrants to the US, I hope that world leaders coming together at UNGA will amplify the positive power of migration and urge one another to find safer and more effective solutions for meeting the unprecedented numbers of people on the move. Humans have always been on the move, and throughout history, migration has been a positive force. It still is today, and we can come together to meet migration with humanity and ingenuity for the benefit of all.”  

IOM will also highlight its collaboration with the private sector through various events, focusing on transforming corporate values, enhancing migrant rights protection, fostering innovative technical partnerships, and securing flexible funding for global impact.  

Also, at UNGA 79, IOM will launch the Climate Mobility Innovation Lab. This initiative, responding to the demand for urgent action on the climate crisis, aims to develop innovative solutions for climate-induced migration, fostering resilience and sustainable futures for vulnerable communities.  

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For more information, please contact:  

In New York, Rahma Soliman, rsoliman@iom.int and Deepika Nath, dnath@iom.int 

In Geneva,  Zoe Brennan, zbrennan@iom.int