ICJ Highlights role of judges & lawyers at UN consultation for Global Compact on migration

The ICJ emphasised the role of judges and lawyers in protecting human rights of migrants, during consultations at the UN in Geneva, as part of the preparatory process for a Global Compact on migration.

The informal consultation was convened by the UN General Assembly and held in Geneva on 8-9 May 2017. With a focus on human rights of migrants, it was the first thematic consultation to be held in connection with ongoing efforts by States to agree a UN global compact for safe, orderly and regular migration.

In addition to a written submission, the ICJ made statements during the main discussion, and as part of the concluding discussions.

The initial statement highlighted the recently published Principles on the Role of Judges and Lawyers in relation to Refugees and Migrants, developed by the ICJ in consultation with a wide range of relevant experts.

The concluding statement emphasised that effective protection of human rights, including of migrants, requires equal and effective access to impartial courts and independent lawyers, and urged States to ensure that the need for legal and practical guarantees for such access is reflected in the Global Compact eventually to be adopted. Indeed, the ICJ noted, access of individuals to a means of their enforcement is a key element distinguishing durable “rights” from, for instance, welcome but not necessarily permanent generosity.

For more information about the Principles on the Role of Judges and Lawyers in relation to Refugees and Migrants, click here.

 

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