What Can You Do To Help Migrants?

There is not a universally accepted definition of what a migrant is. Generally, migrants are considered to be individuals who move from one place to another for a number of different reasons, including economic opportunities and better living conditions.

In 2020, it was estimated that there were over 280 million international migrants in the world. That equates to nearly 4% of the total world population.

However, since migrants are not defined the same way by all countries, don’t always cross international borders, and aren’t necessarily fleeing persecution, they are not protected in the same way that refugees are. This is problematic because migrants can face many struggles and dangers in their lives. Additionally, they can be overlooked for their contributions to societies and economies. So, what can you do to help migrants?

How To Help Migrants

There are many ways in which individuals and organizations can help migrants, help protect them, and expand their rights. Some ways to help include:

• Advocate for Policy Change - Many migrants face challenges and barriers due to restrictive immigration policies. By speaking out against these policies and advocating for more inclusive and humane policies, individuals can help to create a more welcoming environment for migrants.

• Educate Yourself and Others - Migrants often face negative stereotypes and misunderstandings from people who don't know the reasons and stories that led them to leave their countries. By learning more about the reasons why people migrate and the challenges they face, individuals can help to dispel myths and promote understanding.

• Support Local Organizations - Many migrants live in communities near you. Joining local organizations or initiatives that help immigrants integrate into society can be an effective way to make a positive impact on their lives.

• Support Businesses Owned by Migrants - Many migrants rely on starting their own businesses to support themselves and their families. Supporting these businesses can help to provide economic opportunities for migrants and promote integration.

• Volunteer Your Time - Many organizations that help migrants rely on volunteers to help them carry out their essential work. This could include assisting with the provision of basic needs such as food and clothing, or providing support and assistance to migrants as they navigate the legal and administrative systems in a new country.

• Donate To Organizations That Work With Migrants - There are many nonprofit organizations, such as us at the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC), that work to assist migrants and provide them with basic needs such as food, shelter, and medical care, Donating to such organizations helps us to continue our critical work.

It's important to note that not all actions will carry the same effect in all places, as the situations will vary between countries, regions, and individual migrants. Additionally, it's important to consider the potential impact of your actions and be mindful of the fact that some actions may have unintended consequences for migrants. It's important to always listen to the communities affected, and work together with them.

ICMC advocates for the rights of all uprooted people, including refugees, internally displaced persons, and all migrants. ICMC and its members remain committed to supporting immigration policies that produce more sustainable solutions.

ICMC’s efforts include protecting internally displaced children in Burkina Faso, providing assistance to Afghan refugees with our partner agencies, providing support to survivors of gender-based violence in Malaysia, aiding Ukrainian refugees, and more.

We rely on donations to fund our critical humanitarian work and continue changing lives. Find out how you can make a difference and help migrants, internally displaced persons, and refugees in need today!

About the International Catholic Migration Commission

The International Catholic Migration Commission is a nonprofit organization that protects, serves, and advocates for displaced people throughout the world. We help refugees, asylum-seekers, victims of human trafficking, and migrants of all faiths, races, and ethnicities forge lives in safety and dignity.

With support from people like you, ICMC delivers humanitarian aid and social development, protects vulnerable migrants, contributes to refugee resettlement efforts, advocates before governments, and partners with civic leaders. We seek a sustainable solution to dangerous migration and refugee crises.

Find out more by visiting our website.