Sahar Ragab
The General Secretariat of the Arab League (Social Affairs Sector – Department of Refugees, Expatriates and Migration Affairs) held the 12th meeting of the Arab Regional Consultative Process on Migration and Asylum on April 27–28, 2026, via video conference. The meeting was attended by focal points from Arab member states, along with representatives from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA).
Follow-up on the Global Compact for Migration
The meeting focused on the latest developments regarding the follow-up and review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2018. Discussions also aimed to prepare member states for effective participation in the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) 2026, scheduled to take place in New York from May 5 to May 8, 2026.
Member states reviewed their national efforts to implement and assess the Global Compact for Migration and exchanged experiences and best practices in managing migration and asylum issues across the Arab region.
Iraqi Proposal to Strengthen Cooperation Against Migrant Smuggling
During the meeting, participants discussed a proposal submitted by the Republic of Iraq to enhance Arab cooperation in combating migrant smuggling, amid growing challenges related to irregular migration and human trafficking networks. Participants stressed the importance of regional coordination and information sharing among Arab countries to effectively address these issues.
Adoption of a New Action Plan for 2026–2027
The meeting is expected to conclude with the adoption of the Arab Regional Consultative Process Action Plan on Migration and Asylum for the period 2026–2027, aimed at strengthening joint Arab policies and enhancing institutional cooperation in migration and asylum matters, in line with sustainable development goals and regional humanitarian security prioritie