Large movements of migrants and refugees have once again brought migration to the forefront of international attention. Globalization, conflict, poverty, urbanization, inequality and poor job prospects are among the reasons that compel people to leave their homes in search of a better future for themselves and their family. Despite many benefits of migration, migrants themselves remain among the most vulnerable members of society.

Governments face the challenge of integrating the health needs of migrants into national plans, policies andstrategies as recommended by resolution WHA61.17 on the Health of Migrants adopted in 2008. Urgent action is required to ensure the migrant’s right to health and to implement migrant-sensitive health policies thatincorporate universal health coverage and equitable access to quality health services regardless of the migrant’s legal status.
WHO is working with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), among others, to tackle the health needs and improve the health status of migrant populations while managing the possible health impacts on the affected local populations. WHO and its regional offices have provided support to Member States in developing and implementing policies aimed at enhancing the role of the health sector in responding to the needs of migrant and affected local populations. This technical briefing will review the current situation and priorities related to migration and health, review best practices and look at lessons learnt and implications for the future of WHO’s work in relation to migration and
health. The human face of all that surrounds migration and health will be emphasized.

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