Core Working Group 1.2: Knowledge platform and connection hub (Migration Network Hub)

This Core Working Group aims to support States and other stakeholders in the implementation, follow-up and review of the GCM by providing a virtual “meeting space” where governments, stakeholders, partners and experts can access, request and share migration-related information and services.

Evidence-based policymaking is increasingly becoming a priority for the field of migration. However, the task of compiling and sharing knowledge is not always straightforward. A needs assessment commissioned by the United Nations Network on Migration found that policymakers and practitioners face the challenge of navigating the available content, considering the large number of existing websites and information on many topics. There are questions over how each piece of information has been collected, framed and analyzed. For this reason, the Global Compact for Migration (GCM) has called for the establishment of the Knowledge Platform and Connection Hub (under the Capacity-Building Mechanism), which will serve as a source of validated expertise on migration.

The Network’s Core Working Group on the Knowledge Platform (KP) and Connection Hub (CH) aims to support States and other stakeholders in the implementation, follow-up and review of the GCM by providing a virtual “meeting space” where governments, stakeholders, partners and experts can access, request and share migration-related information and services. It provides curated content, analysis and information on the full range of issues covered in the GCM. As an integral part of the UN Network on Migration’s website, the KP&CH is a platform that brings together a repository of existing evidence, practices (forthcoming) and initiatives with more interactive elements that facilitate knowledge sharing, such as online discussion spaces and an expert database. In this interconnected ecosystem, users can participate in online discussions, search for key references by GCM objective, guiding principle and geographic area, and upload content directly to the platform. Content submitted is peer reviewed by thematic experts before inclusion, ensuring that high editorial standards are consistently upheld. The Working Group provided a briefing to Member States as well as civil society and other stakeholders in March 2020 and then via the Coordinator in October 2020. The integrated KP and CH is expected to be publicly launched in spring 2021.