Today we celebrate International MigrantsDay, a day recognized 21 years ago by the United Nations to acknowledge over 280 million migrants (today) who are integral members of all societies and nations.

“1 in every 30 people in the world is a migrant. Saturday’s #MigrantsDay is an opportunity to celebrate the millions of migrants that are integral members of the societies in which they live, and their contributions to both their home & host countries” – IOM on Migrants Day 2021

It is estimated that over 3.5% of today’s world population is composed of migrants. According to the “International Migrants Highlights 2020” Report of IOM, growth in the number of international migrants has been robust over the last two decades, reaching 281 million people living outside their country of origin in 2020, up from 173 million in 2000 and 221 million in 2010.

Today, we also celebrate the #AlbanianDiaspora Day, set by the Albanian State 3 years ago, in order to recognize and appreciate the contribution of all Albanians abroad. On April 5, 2018, the Albanian Parliament, with the proposal of the Council of Ministers, approved Law no. 16/2018, which, among other things, designates December 18 as the national diaspora day in Albania.

Albanian Diaspora today constitutes a number of over 2.8 million people, including those with origin from Kosova, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Presheva Valley (Serbia). The Republic of Albania alone is estimated to have over 1.5 million citizens living abroad, or over 35% of the resident population. The Albanian Diaspora today is one of the most vibrant communities in many countries, especially in those in #Europe and the #USA. With hard work and integrity, our diaspora is representing our nations’ values in the best way, making an extraordinary contribution to the host societies as well.

Happy December 18th to all migrants, being grateful for their contribution to world society.