When is International Migrants Day?
December 18th is International Migrants Day.
What is International Migrants Day?
Human migration is a bold act. What would it take for you to pack up and get outta Dodge, to find a better life in a new country? International Migrants Day promotes the protection of migrants and encourages migrants to share their experiences.
From ancient Celts moving into Europe to modern Jews relocating to the holy land of Israel, migration is a common human experience. Many people migrate to find better jobs in wealthy countries. Others have to flee political and social upheaval.
Whether it’s an act of desperation or an attempt to rise above poverty, migration is often a courageous venture to overcome adversity and seek out a better life. Whatever the reason, International Migrants Day supports these people in their search for security and stability.
Facts about International Migrants Day!
- There were 244 million international migrants in 2015. Two thirds of them live in Europe or Asia.
- About 10% of today’s migrants are younger than 15 years old.
- The 1947 Partition of India displaced as many as 17 million people, making it the largest human migration in history.
- After the U.S. left Vietnam in 1975, about 3 million Vietnamese, Cambodians, Laotians and Hmong fled the area to escape communist rule.
How to celebrate International Migrants Day:
- Research present-day migrations, and support organizations that are taking action to improve the lives of refugees around the world.
- Promote the human rights of migrants on social media and by writing to your legislators.
What’s the hashtag for International Migrants Day?
Use #MigrantsDay on social media to raise awareness about the plight of international migrants.