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Whole-of-government approach

Cross-cutting theme in the Global Compact for Migration

The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM) is based on a set of cross-cutting and interdependent guiding principles. This page provides resources for the guiding principle of Whole-of-government-approach:

“Whole-of-government approach. The Global Compact considers that migration is a multidimensional reality that cannot be addressed by one government policy sector alone. To develop and implement effective migration policies and practices, a whole-of-government approach is needed to ensure horizontal and vertical policy coherence across all sectors and levels of government”  (GCM, 2018: para. 15)

A whole-of-government approach to advance the objectives of the Global Compact is vital. By working across all relevant levels and sectors within government, states can promote policy coherence. For migrants to have access to services in health, education and justice, among others, coordination among government ministries and departments is important. As well, working with all levels of government—local, national, regional and global—ensures vertical policy coherence by making sure that migration policies reflect legal and institutional frameworks and realities on the ground. As mentioned in a report by the Secretary-General (SG Report A/75/542) and given that inclusion starts at the local level, local governments are well-placed to drive forward many Global Compact commitments. Building an institutional framework for coordination both across government sectors and across government levels is an important step for the mainstreaming of migration into diverse policy areas. 

 

Whole-of- government approach in the text of the Global Compact

The guiding principle of Whole-of-government approach is also mentioned in the following sections of the GCM:

  • Objective 11, para. 27(a): Manage borders in an integrated, secure and coordinated manner
  • Objective 23, para. 39(a): Strengthen international cooperation and global partnerships for safe, orderly and regular migration

The Global Compact for Migration (GCM) report is available in AR, ZH, EN, FR, RU, ES.

 

    Contents using this term
    TitleTypeCreated
    Memorias MigrantesPractice Repository
    Recommendations on Regional Coordination and Information Exchange Mechanisms in the Search for Missing Persons in the Context of MigrationPractice Repository
    Enhancing Community Resilience and Local Governance Project in South Sudan (ECRP Phase I and Phase II)Practice Repository
    Transhumance Tracking Tool (TTT)Practice Repository
    Breaking the Climate Conflict Cycle in Galmudug, SomaliaPractice Repository
    Climate Migration in Urban Areas: Challenges, Representations and InclusionPractice Repository
    Environmental Migration Portal: Knowledge Platform on People on the Move in a Changing Climate Practice Repository
    Training for Policy Makers and Practitioners on Migration, Environment, Climate Change and AdaptationPractice Repository
    Migrant Protection Beta Groups (“Grupos Beta” in Spanish)Practice Repository
    Migrant Electoral GuidePractice Repository
    Missing and Deceased Migrant Program (MDMP)Practice Repository
    Humanitarian Rescue Operations (HRO) as part of the Migrant Response and Resource Mechanism (MRRM)Practice Repository
    Medical assistance provided to migrants in NigerPractice Repository
    Search and Rescue (SAR) missions for stranded migrants in NigerPractice Repository
    Assistance and promotion of vulnerable migrants along the entire northern Mediterranean coast of MoroccoPractice Repository
    Media as a tool of advocacy and supporting mechanismPractice Repository
    Declaration for the Dignified Treatment of all Missing and Deceased Persons and their Families as a Consequence of Migrant Journeys Practice Repository
    Immediate support and emergency recovery for unaccompanied foreign and separated children (UASC) in the territory of AlbaniaPractice Repository
    DTM Wifi AnalyticsPractice Repository
    Migration and Sustainable Development in The Gambia (MSDG)Practice Repository

    *References to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of United Nations Security Council resolution 1244 (1999).