Migration is a phenomenon as old as humanity itself. Every year, people leave one country for another. In 2020, the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) estimated that over 280 million people were living outside their country of origin. Each year, these figures continue to rise, often fuelling debates. Migration remains a major issue that requires thorough reflection to find potential solutions. It is within this context that the Legal and Social Expertise Clinic (CEJUS) organised with several partners including AfricTivistes through its project Dialogue Migration, the 6th edition of the Harmattan Forum from 19 to 21 February 2025 in the Togolese capital, under the theme: “Migration in the Context of Sustainable Development: Ensuring Human Dignity, Inclusion of Youth and Women.”

The mobility of populations has always been a natural phenomenon, but not without its challenges. In recent years, migration has sparked heated debates. From Europe to Canada and the United States, particularly with Donald Trump’s arrival at the White House and his anti-immigration policies, migrants have suffered, often in disregard of international law. Many face degrading and humiliating conditions, with some countries labelling them as “invaders” or “burdens.” Yet, “we are all migrants,” exclaimed Professor Adjita AS, Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Lomé. He reminded the audience that throughout history, human beings have always moved in search of a better life. In their pursuit of improved living conditions, migrants face uncertainty and numerous challenges. Restrictions imposed by certain countries infringe upon the human dignity of migrants, the Dean argued, pointing out the paradox that those opposing migration are often descendants of migrants themselves.

Leaving one’s country is rarely a choice made lightly, especially when the Mediterranean has become the stage of a humanitarian tragedy. Parents continue to watch helplessly as their children disappear at sea while seeking an elusive promised land. “When we see children, mothers, and young people crammed into makeshift boats, we should not simply call them invaders but rather ask ourselves: What will become of them?” said Dieudonné Kossi, Executive Director of CEJUS, the organisation behind the forum. He stressed that “despair and lack of opportunities” push people to leave their home countries. Kossi advocated for improved living conditions for young Africans, who often feel compelled to seek a future elsewhere. Migration, he argued, should not be the only option for Africa’s youth. He called for a shift in mindset, challenging the belief that success is only achievable abroad. “We need to restore hope among young people by showing them that they can indeed succeed in their own country, provided there is solidarity and collective commitment,” Kossi insisted.

For Professor Komlan Batawila, First Vice-President of the University of Lomé, migration is a powerful driver of development rather than an inevitable consequence of economic hardship. He emphasised that every migrant carries potential that can contribute to society. Highlighting the role of young people and women as “engines of change and creativity,” he urged their inclusion in development processes in host countries while ensuring respect for their human dignity.

Quoting the IOM, Professor Abdou Khadre Diop pointed out that 80% of African migration occurs within Africa itself. He cautioned against alarmist narratives, stating that Africa is not a major source of international migration. This was echoed by Guillaume Goulard, a State Counsellor and Deputy President of the Interior Section in France, who listed India (18 million), Mexico (11 million), Russia (11 million), and China (10 million) as the top countries of origin for migrants. Preferred global destinations include the United States, Germany, and Saudi Arabia. Goulard noted that no African country ranks among the largest sources of migration but acknowledged that 40% of Africans live outside their home country—a figure expected to rise in the coming years. He also highlighted increasing hostility towards migrants in host countries, with 51% of Europeans and 41% of French citizens expressing negative sentiments towards migration.

Professor Gildas Fiacre Nonnou pointed out that coexistence between migrants and host populations is becoming increasingly strained due to the criminalisation of migration. Migrants are often perceived as threats to security, employment, and social stability. However, he emphasised that migration is an economic growth factor, as migrants send remittances to their home countries while contributing to the development of their host nations. He also noted the benefits of cultural diversity, skill-sharing, and expanded trade networks.

All speakers underscored the fundamental rights of migrants, stressing that they should not face marginalisation. They called for legal protection and the enforcement of sanctions against human rights violations, in accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.