Why is the work of MRI so important?
There are currently 175 million international migrants in the world. That means one in every three people is a refugee, migrant worker or member of their family, or a displaced person. MRI works particularly on the rights of migrant workers and members of their families. As non-nationals in their host countries, they are particularly vulnerable, often subjected to exploitative working and living conditions, and become targets of racism and discrimination. At grassroots level many of our members are educating and empowering migrants about their rights. We help our members to influence governments and get them involved in UN processes. Migrant associations, church based groups, labour organisations, lawyers, NGOs (non-governmental organisations) and activists are all working together under MRI to promote respect for the human rights of migrants worldwide. The YMCA works for social justice, especially for children and young people. What are the main issues facing young migrants in 2004? O
