Greeting address by State Secretary Pål Lønseth

"I would like to thank Mr. Polosa and his IOM office for this invitation to observe, together, the international migrants’ day. I don’t think most Norwegians are aware that today is in fact the migrants’ day and they do not know what the day signifies. Mr. Polosa is, I understand, about to create an annual tradition here in Oslo. This year you are two days early. Still, you ensure that central stakeholders are reminded about the day and the message the day is supposed to give. You remind us that migrants are beneficial to our society and that migrant shall enjoy human rights and fundamental freedoms throughout the world, including, of course, in Norway.

People have always been on the move. Some move away from war or hunger, others move in hope of a better future. In a world with over 200 million migrants, the number entering Norway every year may seem rather small. Still, there is hardly a day without migration issues being the focus of media attention or an election where migration is not on top of the agenda.

What happens outside of Norway is part of what is shaping the policies inside of our country. The global economy is going through a major crisis and security issues stay high on the international political agenda.

The need for labor from abroad is still there even though many migrants have lost their jobs recently. The number of approved temporary work permits stays high. Layoffs and lower remittances cause the foreign job markets to be less attractive, but at the same time opportunities in many countries of origin often deteriorate even more creating a vicious circle.

Migration policies also change. Currently we see such policies growing more restrictive. This is partly because of a trend where a number of people are seen to abuse the asylum institute, meaning they come on false premises. A situation of dire poverty and no hope is a good reason to want to try out for better a better situation, but it is not a reason for political asylum. In many European countries there is also an increase in illegal work related labor migration.

Our attitude is one of solidarity and assistance to those who need assistance. While at the same time, those who are not in need of protection are expected to return home. We have built a good and fair asylum application system which, while not being foolproof, still offers a very good means of protection for those in need. Norway has a strong and good cooperation with the UNHCR and we do our best to follow their advice. Part of this cooperation lies within the high number of quota refugees accepted by Norway. Additionally, Norway supports numerous projects in countries of origin in an attempt to alleviate poverty and other factors leading to migration.

Migration will not end. People will continue to move to greener pastures and Norway will continue to be one of the actors ensuring the dignity and safety of migrants through a fair, but managed migration policy.

By concluding, I would like to thank IOM for the services rendered to migrant coming to and leaving Norway over the last years. I and the Ministry of Justice look forwards to continue working together with you, Mr. Polosa, and your office in 2010. In the meantime, I wish you the best for the upcoming festive season.