ECOWAS Launches Campaign Against Irregular Migration

The ECOWAS Parliament has initiated efforts to combat irregular migration and human trafficking through grassroots engagement, launching a campaign in Banjul, Gambia. This marks the first phase of a two-country outreach program running from July 6-10 in Gambia and July 13-17 in Dakar, Senegal.

The Gambian delegation, led by Billai G. Tunkara, the fourth deputy speaker, aims to move beyond legislative discussions and directly engage communities affected by irregular migration.

Miatta Lili French, representing ECOWAS Parliament, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration among member states to address the transnational challenges posed by irregular migration and human trafficking. The program seeks to complement the Gambian government's efforts to tackle socio-economic challenges faced by youth and promote safer migration pathways.

The Gambia has been identified as a country of origin, transit, and destination along the Atlantic migration route, with increasing vulnerabilities among women and children. The outreach aims to provide lawmakers with firsthand knowledge of the realities driving irregular migration in the region.