The Antalya Diplomacy Forum invited ICMPD to participate in the panel on “Addressing irregular migration: A holistic approach” on 11 March 2022. ICMPD was represented by the Director Migration Dialogues and Cooperation, Martijn Pluim.
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum took place for the second time after a first edition was held in 2021. The 3-day event hosted heads of states, foreign ministers and representatives of international organisations. Mr. Pluim discussed migration issues with
Mr. Amin Salam (Minister Economy and Trade Lebanon)
Mr. Filippo Grandi (UN High Commissioner for Refugees)
Mr. Savaş Ünlü (Director General, Presidency of Migration Management, Türkiye).
Ms. Leyla Kayacik ( Special Representative of the. Secretary General of the. Council of Europe for migration and refugees)
The panel focused on the challenges countries face with regard to preparing for and management of forced migration and the linkages this has to irregular migration. Mr Pluim emphasised that the challenges related to irregular migration were operational but at the same time also highly political. Governments needed to show to their citizens they were in control of who entered the territory. “Irregular migration creates the impression that the government is not in control. It should therefore be prevented, with full respect to human rights and ensuring protection to refugees“ he said. The Director expressed his strong appreciation for Turkey, hosting millions of Syrian refugees for over 10 years.
Turkey is a Member State and an important partner of ICMPD. ICMPD has two project offices in Turkey with over 50 staff members who manage more than 30 projects.