18 December: International Migrants Day

When I was asked which UN international day between October and Christmas I would like to research, I was quickly drawn to International Migrants Day. The reason is obvious: during the last few months the largest flow of refugees and migrants since World War II is underway in Europe, people fleeing war, poverty and hunger.

On December 18, 2009 the UN will observe International Migrants Day, a day to renew commitments already made and to celebrate what has been achieved. Most important, it is a day to focus our attention and draw strength for the vast amount that remains to be done.