Adopted in December 2018, the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) is the first intergovernmental agreement to comprehensively address international migration in all its dimensions. Although non-binding, the Compact reflects a strong global consensus on the need for cooperation and coordination to manage migration effectively, based on principles of sovereignty, shared responsibility, and human rights.
Developed through extensive consultations with governments, civil society, migrants, and other stakeholders, the GCM provides a comprehensive framework of 23 objectives aimed at improving the governance of migration, minimizing its negative impacts, and maximizing its development potential.
Key Objectives of the GCM
Among the 23 objectives, several align directly with WARBE DF’s mission and advocacy priorities:
- Objective 1: Collect and utilize accurate data to inform evidence-based policies
- Objective 6: Facilitate fair and ethical recruitment and safeguard working conditions
- Objective 10: Prevent, combat and eradicate trafficking in persons in the context of migration
- Objective 15: Provide access to basic services for migrants
- Objective 17: Eliminate all forms of discrimination and promote evidence-based public discourse
- Objective 18: Invest in skills development and mutual recognition of qualifications
- Objective 21: Cooperate in facilitating safe and dignified return and sustainable reintegration
WARBE DF’s Engagement with the GCM
WARBE Development Foundation (WARBE DF) has been actively involved in the GCM process from its inception, representing the perspectives of Bangladeshi migrant workers and grassroots communities at every stage of development and review.
Our engagement includes:
- Contributions to National GCM Consultations: WARBE DF participated in the preparatory and follow-up meetings to help shape Bangladesh’s commitments under the Compact.
- Regional and Global Reviews: We have taken part in Asia-Pacific and global stocktaking forums, including the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF), which monitors GCM progress.
- Civil Society Advocacy: WARBE DF works with regional and global networks to ensure civil society voices—especially those of migrants—inform GCM implementation.
- Community Awareness Programs: We disseminate GCM principles through local education and pre-departure orientation programs to promote safe and informed migration.
- Ethical Recruitment and Reintegration: Our on-the-ground programs promote ethical recruitment, access to justice, and sustainable reintegration for returnee migrants—key GCM themes.
As part of its vision, WARBE believes the GCM is not just a framework—it is a commitment to human dignity, global solidarity, and migrant empowerment.
Learn more about the GCM at IOM