An important forum for SIMN as discussions about the contribution of migrant remittances is one of the many topics.

New York, SIMN, Head Office, June 19, 2017 – Executive Director, Leonir Mario Chiarello, attended the Global Forum on Remittances, Investment and Development 2017 in New York at the United Nations headquarters. The forum “serve as a platform to specifically share best practices and lessons learned, create opportunities to promote global remittance-related dialogue and address solutions to maximize the development impact of remittances and migrant investment trends in countries of origin.”

“Migrants and refugees have demonstrated their significant contribution for development along history. Coherent public policies and public-private partnerships on investment are determinant for integral development of both sending and receiving countries of migrants and refugees.” Said, Leonir Mario Chiarello, Executive director of SIMN.

The important part that migrant remittances play in sustainable development is undeniable. As a result, reflections and actions are needed from public policies and through partnerships to leverage that potential.

SIMN is supporting more than 250 Scalabrinian centers, shelters and programs that are providing lodging, food, training and employment programs; psychological and religious services; protection to victims of human trafficking and support in the integration process to migrants, refugees and seafarers in five continents. In 2016, for example, Scalabrinian Centers has supported 120,738 migrants and refugees and 172,790 seafarers. SIMN is also supporting a network of schools providing education, school supplies, and food, (possibly their only meal of the day) to thousands of needy children. In addition, SIMN is an accredited Non-Governmental Organization at the United Nations, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Organization of American States (OAS) and from this perspective is providing research and support for regional and global policies to protect and promote the dignity and the rights of migrants and their families.