International Migrants Day is observed on December 18 each year. Created by the United Nations, it recognizes the contributions of the world's international migrants and raises awareness of their rights and challenges. People move for many reasons, including work, study, family and safety, and migrants play important roles in economies and communities around the world.
History of International Migrants Day
On December 18, 1990, the UN General Assembly adopted the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. In 2000, the General Assembly proclaimed December 18 as International Migrants Day to mark that anniversary.
The International Organization for Migration (IOM), which became part of the UN system in 2016, reports that there are about 281 million international migrants worldwide, roughly 3.6 percent of the global population. Many send money home to their families, supporting communities in their countries of origin.
In 2018, UN member states adopted the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, a non-binding agreement on cooperation. The United States has long been shaped by migration, from early colonists to more recent arrivals from every continent.
Why International Migrants Day Matters
Migrants contribute to economies, culture and innovation in their new countries and support families back home.
The day highlights the risks some migrants face, including exploitation and dangerous journeys.
It also encourages respectful conversations about migration and welcoming communities.
Migration is also part of the American story. Nearly every family in the United States can trace its roots to people who arrived from somewhere else, whether centuries ago or recently. Learning about migrants' journeys, including the challenges they face in finding work, housing and community, can build empathy and a stronger sense of shared history.
How to Celebrate International Migrants Day
- Learn migration facts: read data from the IOM.
- Hear stories: read or listen to migrants' experiences.
- Support newcomers: volunteer with resettlement or language programs.
- Celebrate heritage: share your own family's migration story.
- Shop local: support immigrant-owned businesses.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, celebrate the diverse backgrounds of employees, support language-learning or mentoring programs, or share stories of immigrant founders and innovators. In classrooms, students can map their families' migration histories, read stories about immigrant experiences, or learn about Ellis Island and Angel Island. Be sensitive to students' immigration circumstances. At home, families can talk about where their ancestors came from, cook a traditional family recipe or visit an immigration museum.
Fun Facts About International Migrants Day
- The UN proclaimed International Migrants Day in 2000.
- The Migrant Workers Convention was adopted on December 18, 1990.
- There are about 281 million international migrants worldwide.
International Migrants Day FAQs
When is International Migrants Day?
International Migrants Day is observed on December 18 each year.
Who created International Migrants Day?
The UN General Assembly proclaimed it in 2000.
Why is it on December 18?
It marks the 1990 adoption of the UN Migrant Workers Convention.
How many international migrants are there?
About 281 million, according to the International Organization for Migration.
What is the IOM?
The International Organization for Migration, a UN-related agency working on migration.
How can I support migrants?
Volunteer with resettlement groups, support immigrant-owned businesses and learn migrants' stories.