On June 19 and 20, 2024, the Scalabrini International Migration Network (SIMN) had the honor of participating in the Third Thematic Consultation of the Cartagena+40 Process, held in the city of Bogotá, Colombia. This important event brought together experts and representatives from governments, international organizations, and civil society to address the challenges and opportunities in the protection and assistance of forcibly displaced people in Latin America and the Caribbean, commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Cartagena Declaration on Refugees.

The purpose of this Third Thematic Consultation was to carry out a joint reflection to identify, highlight, and promote consensual solutions that strengthen the protection, preparation, and resilience of forcibly displaced people in contexts of disasters and the effects of climate change as a regional response. This will be achieved by guaranteeing a comprehensive and differentiated approach for groups and people in vulnerable situations and keeping people at the center of all actions.

Fr. Andrei Zanon represented the organization in this thematic consultation, where he shared valuable experiences and best practices in supporting migrants, displaced people, and refugees. During his speech, Father Zanon highlighted the need to strengthen innovative alliances and international cooperation to respond effectively to the needs of migrant, displaced, and refugee populations. Furthermore, he underlined SIMN’s commitment to promoting the human rights and dignity of migrants, as well as the importance of a comprehensive and coordinated response to address current challenges.

SIMN’s participation in this event reflects its continued dedication to collaborating with diverse stakeholders to improve policies and practices that benefit migrants, displaced persons, and refugees in the region. The Third Thematic Consultation of the Cartagena+40 Process provided an essential platform for dialogue and joint action, and SIMN is proud to contribute to these global efforts, working towards a future where all migrants, displaced persons, and refugees can live in security and dignity.