The Compact sets out 23 objectives, each focusing on one aspect of migration. Participating states are not expected to implement each action, but to view them as examples of best practices on how to achieve the objectives. It emphasizes state sovereignty as a guiding principle and that it is a state’s sovereign right to control its own borders.
Canada has been actively engaged in the development of the GCM. This includes the majority of the almost 200 action items, which reflect Canadian practices and are aligned with the compact’s objectives and commitments. Following more than a year of negotiations, this is an important milestone and represents the first multilateral framework for the global response to migration.
Quotes
“Comprehensive national migration systems can help drive innovation, economic growth, and social stability. Our government believes that this Global Compact is not only an effective way to address the challenges that migration can bring, but is also an opportunity for nations to harness the contributions of newcomers and to ensure their successful integration into new countries.”
– The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Canada is proud to adopt this Global Compact. The compact is an important international framework to better manage and address global migration challenges, as well as improve cooperation between countries. It contributes to a rules-based international system, and furthers a global approach to migration, which is based on facts, stands up for human rights and works to eliminate gender-based violence. Canada would especially like to thank Louise Arbour for her leadership and hard work to protect vulnerable populations and migrants all over the world.”
The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs
Global Affairs Canada