Families are one of the building blocks of our society, but in today’s world, they face unprecedented challenges – and migration is one of the biggest. Around the world, ongoing conflicts, violence, persecution, and climate change-related natural disasters have resulted in mass displacement. UNHCR estimates that more than one hundred million people have been forced to flee their homes globally, meaning that 1 in every 78 people is forcibly displaced, and as we commemorate International Day of Families this year, it is particularly important to reflect on how migration affects families.
Established by the UN in 1993, the annual day intends to raise awareness about the social, economic, and demographic factors that affect families, and the UN has also further emphasised the significance of family-oriented policies and programs in the Sustainable Development Goals. This year’s theme, “Demographic Trends and Families” focuses on demographic change and its impact on families, and migration significantly impacts families, influencing their structure, dynamics, and relationships, and it is crucial to acknowledge and address such challenges to promote and foster progress for all individuals, no matter where they call home.
Challenges faced by migrant families
The migration process is often traumatic and stressful, and many also experience violence, abuse, and exploitation during their journey to safety. While migration may offer individuals new opportunities, including education, employment, and a better quality of life, it can also create challenges with long-lasting consequences.
One of the most significant challenges caused by migration is separation. Those forced to leave their home often leave behind loved ones, resulting in prolonged periods of separation and uncertainty about each other’s whereabouts and well-being. Being separated from family members may be traumatic both for those leaving and those left behind and can have a long-lasting effect on mental health and well-being. Minors are especially vulnerable. UNICEF registered over 36 million displaced children by the end of 2021, many of whom are separated from their parents or guardians, and they face a multitude of challenges, including the risk of exploitation, abuse, and trafficking.
Families affected by migration also face other challenges, including financial insecurity, language barriers, and discrimination. Financial insecurity can make it difficult for individuals to provide for their families, leading to poverty and social exclusion, and some are also financially responsible for loved ones left behind. Language barriers can make it more difficult for migrants to access essential services and communicate with new communities, and discrimination may exacerbate feelings of isolation.
Noura’s story
Despite the numerous challenges faced by migrant families, there are also success stories of families who have overcome adversity and succeeded in building a new life. Such stories highlight their resilience and remind us of the importance of supporting and empowering those navigating the complex and often arduous migration process. Noura’s story is a powerful example of this.
In 2016, the family of Noura Shikhany attempted to cross the Aegean Sea for a third time, along with almost half a million Syrians who fled their country in search of safety. Their hometown had been under siege since 2012, and Noura’s twin brother Basel had already fled to Germany. However, their journey took a dangerous turn when panic broke out on the small wooden boat carrying them across the Sea, and three men jumped offboard. Having received a message from Noura, Basil, trying to find a way to help his family adrift in the Aegean Sea, sought help from a Sky News journalist who contacted a photographer aboard the MOAS vessel the Responder patrolling the seas off the coast of Greece. At the same time, the crew of the Responder spotted three men crying for help in the water and rescued them immediately, together with the vessel carrying the Shikhany family, and notified Basel of their rescue. Noura and her family then embarked on a gruelling journey through Eastern Europe to reach Germany and, after eight long months of separation and uncertainty, Noura and Basel finally reunited at the Saarbrücken train station and were granted asylum.
Migration policies for families
Noura’s story is a testament to the importance and effectiveness of migration policies such as family reunification visas and #SafeAndLegalRoutes. Family reunification visas allow family members, such as spouses, parents, and children, to reunite in another country, but the availability and eligibility criteria for such visas differ from country to country based on their migration policies. In addition to family reunification visas, the implementation of #SafeAndLegalRoutes of migration also plays a crucial role in supporting separated families. They provide a safe means to travel to a new country without having to risk one’s safety and cross borders illegally or rely on smugglers. That is why MOAS continues to advocate for the urgent need to establish #SafeAndLegalRoutes, so people do not have to risk their lives to reach safety.
You can learn more about MOAS global advocacy campaign and sign our petition today: https://www.moas.eu/safe-and-legal-routes
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