India highlighted its dedication to advancing the objectives of the Colombo Process and enhancing collaboration among its member states at the inaugural meeting as the Chair of the Colombo Process at the Permanent Representative Level Meeting in Geneva. This meeting which took place on June 28, 2024 at the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) Headquarters marks a significant milestone, as it is the first time India has assumed this leadership role since the inception of the Colombo Process.
Muktesh Pardeshi, Secretary (Consular, Passport, Visa, and Overseas Indian Affairs), Ministry of External Affairs, delivered a special address as the incoming Chair-in-Office on June 28, 2024. In his address he outlined a comprehensive action plan for the next two years, focusing on several key priorities to strengthen the Colombo Process.
Key Priorities and Initiatives
India’s strategic priorities for the Colombo Process from 2024 to 2026 include:
Reviewing Financial Sustainability: Ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of the Colombo Process is crucial for its continued effectiveness.
Broadening Membership: India aims to expand the membership by including new member states and observers, which will enrich the dialogue and diversify perspectives within the Process.
Reconfiguring Technical Collaborations: Enhancing technical-level collaborations among member states to address emerging migration challenges more effectively.
Structured Rotation for Chairmanship: Implementing a structured rotation system for the chairmanship to ensure equitable representation and leadership opportunities for all member states.
Regional Review of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM): Conducting a comprehensive regional review of the GCM to align regional efforts with global migration frameworks.
Engaging in Regional Dialogues: Strengthening dialogues with other regional processes such as the Abu Dhabi Dialogue (ADD) to foster greater regional cooperation on migration issues.
The Colombo Process: An Overview
The Colombo Process is a Regional Consultative Process comprising 12 member states from Asia, primarily serving as countries of origin for migrant workers. This forum plays a pivotal role in facilitating the exchange of best practices for managing overseas employment. The Process promotes safe, orderly, and regular migration, which is essential for protecting the rights of migrant workers and ensuring their welfare.
Significance of India’s Chairmanship
India’s assumption of the chairmanship of the Colombo Process is a landmark development, highlighting its growing influence and leadership in global migration governance. This role underscores India’s commitment to engaging actively with other member states to address common migration challenges and opportunities. By spearheading initiatives to review financial sustainability, expand membership, and enhance technical collaborations, India is poised to drive significant improvements in migration management across the region.
Moreover, India’s focus on structured rotation for the chairmanship and the regional review of the GCM reflects a commitment to inclusive and transparent governance. Engaging in dialogues with other regional processes like the ADD further demonstrates India’s dedication to fostering international cooperation on migration issues.
A Spirit of Cooperation
The meeting in Geneva was characterized by a spirit of cooperation and a shared vision towards achieving the goals of the Colombo Process. Member states reiterated their commitment to working together to enhance migration governance and ensure the protection and welfare of migrant workers.
