The Government of Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the United Nations Network on Migration (UNNM) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Sierra Leone, with funding from the European Union, has held a validation session for the National Review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM).

The event took place at Lac’s Villa under the theme: “From Commitment to Action: Translating the Global Compact for Migration into National Realities for Sustainable Development.” It brought together civil society organisations, representatives from all 16 districts, government ministries and agencies, returnees, and members of the media.

Migration in Sierra Leone continues to be driven largely by unemployment, poverty, and the search for better opportunities. Many young people reportedly embark on irregular migration routes, exposing themselves to risks such as trafficking, exploitation, and abuse. Labour migration to the Middle East and other regions also persists, while the return of Sierra Leoneans from transit countries continues to pose reintegration challenges.

Deputy Development Secretary at the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, Osman Conteh, described the review as a significant milestone. He noted that Sierra Leone endorsed the GCM in December 2018 and outlined the objectives of the session, including validating the report, identifying gaps, and setting priorities for the 2026–2030 period. He added that the validated report will be presented in New York later this year and encouraged participants to provide candid feedback.

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Speaking on behalf of civil society organisations, Martha P. Gbenga Chigozie said the process offers an opportunity to capture migration realities that may have previously been overlooked. She called for a comprehensive report addressing irregular migration pathways, reintegration, psychosocial support, and root causes, while also stressing the need for improved data on migrant treatment and translation of the report into local languages.

Osman Bangura, Information and Communications Officer at the Bo District Council, commended the level of representation at the event. He highlighted the inclusion of the National Implementation Plan (NIP), launched last year, noting that it aligns with the 23 recommendations of the GCM. He also emphasized the need to consider internal migration challenges, particularly those faced by people relocating from rural areas to Freetown.

Meanwhile, Jemilatu Sheriff, representing the Migrant Centre for Information and Capacity Building (MiCICaB), said migrants have long sought platforms to share their experiences. She expressed hope that their concerns would be documented and taken seriously, urging continued inclusion in national processes.

Officer-in-Charge of IOM Sierra Leone, Pauline Macharia, said the country’s commitment goes beyond reporting to demonstrating practical solutions and sustaining momentum. She noted that the validated report will represent Sierra Leone at an international forum in New York later this year and reaffirmed IOM’s continued support to the government.

The GCM, adopted in 2018, provides a global framework for international cooperation on migration. Sierra Leone’s validated national review is expected to contribute to global discussions on migration governance.