⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
The UNHRC is the main intergovernmental body within the UN system responsible for “promoting universal respect for the protection of all human rights and fundamental freedoms for all” ("A Rough Guide to the Human Rights Council," n.d.). It addresses human rights violations, makes recommendations to strengthen the overall promotion and protection of human rights, and oversees special procedures that monitor relevant thematic issues.
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
Discrimination against migrants and immigrants is a continuing global human rights issue, affecting individuals regardless of legal status. People who move across borders, whether for work, safety, education, or family, often encounter unequal treatment. This can include difficulties finding fair employment, limited access to healthcare or education, poor housing conditions, or even hostility and xenophobia. Language barriers and lack of social connections can intensify these challenges.
International frameworks under the UN, such as the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (ICRMW), play a significant role in protecting human rights. They establish standards for protecting migrants’ rights, though implementation and effectiveness vary among Member States. In addition, rising migration flows driven by conflict, economic disparity, climate change, and political instability have worsened debates on national sovereignty and social cohesion.
⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯⎯
Recently in the US, refugees legally admitted to the country have been detained and questioned under renewed immigration enforcement policies. This raised concerns about due process and discrimination against displaced persons. Migrant workers in the UK have also reportedly faced racism in workplaces and communities.
Countries most affected by this issue tend to be the host countries, such as the US, the UK, Germany, and Italy. However, the countries of origin, such as Syria, Afghanistan, Venezuela, and several sub-Saharan African states, also play a role in these issues, as persistent conflict, political instability, and economic hardship are the reasons people seek safety abroad, linking their domestic challenges to international issues.