As migration patterns continue to evolve globally, countries around the world are seeking new ways to manage migration effectively, ensuring that both immigrants and host societies benefit from the process. Portugal, as a member of the European Union, has committed to global migration frameworks, such as the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration (GCM). The GCM, adopted by the United Nations in 2018, sets the groundwork for international cooperation on migration. In this blog, we’ll explore how Portugal is implementing the Global Compact, its evolution in migration governance, and the strategies the country is using to promote safe, orderly, and regular migration.

Portugal’s Commitment to the Global Compact for Migration

The Global Compact for Migration (GCM) is the first-ever international agreement to comprehensively address migration across borders. The compact outlines 23 objectives to ensure the safe, orderly, and regular movement of migrants. It encourages international cooperation and emphasizes the protection of the rights of migrants, as well as the benefits migration can bring to host countries and migrants themselves.

Portugal, as a signatory of the GCM, has made a strong commitment to its principles, integrating its goals into national migration policies. The Portuguese government has worked towards creating a legal and social framework that ensures the rights and well-being of migrants, while also addressing the challenges posed by irregular migration.

The Evolution of Migration Governance in Portugal

Portugal’s approach to migration governance has evolved significantly over the past few decades. Traditionally a country of emigration, Portugal has shifted to becoming a country of immigration in recent years. The arrival of large numbers of migrants from regions like Africa, Eastern Europe, and Asia has forced the country to adapt its policies to ensure that migration flows are managed efficiently and in line with international standards.

Portugal’s implementation of the Global Compact aligns with the country’s overall strategy of fostering inclusive integration for migrants. This has led to various improvements in the migration system, from legal frameworks to integration programs designed to ensure that immigrants have access to basic services, such as housing, education, and healthcare.

Key Elements of Portugal’s Migration Governance

1. Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration: Portugal has placed a strong emphasis on ensuring that migration flows are safe and orderly. By promoting legal migration channels, such as work permits, student visas, and family reunification, the country has reduced reliance on irregular migration.

2. Protection of Migrant Rights: The protection of migrant rights has been a cornerstone of Portugal’s migration governance, ensuring that migrants have access to legal representation, social services, and healthcare. Portugal’s policies emphasize the importance of human rights in managing migration and offer a model for other countries looking to improve their migration systems.

3. Integration and Social Inclusion: Portugal’s focus on integration has made it a success story in terms of migrant assimilation. Programs like language education, employment support, and cultural orientation have helped migrants integrate into Portuguese society. These initiatives have fostered a welcoming environment, promoting positive social interactions between migrants and the local population.

Conclusion

Portugal’s implementation of the Global Compact for Migration has led to significant advancements in migration governance. The country’s commitment to safe, orderly, and regular migration, along with its focus on migrant rights and integration, has made it a leader in migration management within the European Union. By aligning its national migration policies with global standards, Portugal is not only improving the lives of migrants but also strengthening its economy and social fabric.