Migrants in Countries in Crisis
Supporting Migrants in Crisis: The MICIC Initiative
The Migrants in Countries in Crisis (MICIC) Initiative is a collaborative, global project led by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and a coalition of countries and organizations. The initiative aims to strengthen international capacity to protect migrants caught in countries experiencing crises, whether from natural disasters or conflict.
Through consultations, research, and the development of voluntary guidelines and effective practices, the MICIC Initiative seeks to equip governments, organizations, and communities to better respond to the unique needs of vulnerable migrant populations.
Relevance to Jamaican diaspora
Launched in 2016, the MICIC Initiative aims to protect and support migrants caught in crisis situations, such as armed conflicts and natural disasters. Through guidelines and best practices, MICIC enhances the response of governments and organizations to ensure the safety and dignity of migrants globally.
For the Jamaican diaspora, MICIC is highly relevant. It promotes:
- Protection: Ensuring the well-being of Jamaicans abroad during crises.
- Support Systems: Establishing reliable channels to aid Jamaicans in emergencies.
- Cross-Border Collaboration: Fostering partnerships between Jamaica and other nations.
- Capacity Building: Strengthening Jamaica's ability to respond to diaspora needs in crises.
The MICIC framework contributes to a safer and more supportive environment for Jamaicans living abroad, safeguarding their rights and promoting resilience during emergencies.
How Can You Support
Members of the diaspora can play a crucial role as communication bridges, fostering smoother connections between migrant communities and Jamaican embassies. By promoting reliable information channels, they can help ensure that Jamaicans abroad are kept up-to-date with potential risks and receive timely updates during crises. Through building links between Jamaican embassies and local organizations, diaspora members can extend the reach of emergency support, making responses faster and more effective. These efforts strengthen not only Jamaica’s resilience to climate-related challenges but also deepen the sense of unity and shared responsibility between Jamaicans at home and abroad.
Beyond financial support, the diaspora brings invaluable expertise by sharing insights and best practices from countries with advanced disaster response and early warning systems. By introducing innovative strategies and approaches, they help Jamaica integrate cutting-edge solutions that reduce risks and save lives, enhancing the country’s overall preparedness for future challenges.
Guidelines to Protect Migrants in Crisis Situations
The Migrants in Countries in Crisis (MICIC) Guidelines offer essential, practical guidance to protect migrants in countries experiencing conflict or natural disasters. These non-binding, voluntary guidelines are structured into three parts: Principles that provide foundational, cross-cutting support, Guidelines that outline actionable steps, and Practices that showcase real-world examples of successful implementation. Together, these components empower States, private sectors, international organizations, and civil society to plan, respond, and support migrants before, during, and after crises.
