The 2nd IGAD Regional Consultative Process (RCP) on Migration and Development was held in Addis Ababa from 7-8 February 2012 at the United Nations Conference Center. After opening remarks by representatives from IGAD, IOM, AUC, and Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the panel reviewed the progresses that the IGAD- RCP made since its establishment in 2010.

This year, the IGAD-RCP focused on the theme of migration and development. Consequently, the experience of IGAD member states on the pertinent issues such as migration, trade and entrepreneurship, citizenship and trans-nationalism, gender migration and development, diaspora remittances, engaging diaspora for development and other issues have been raised for experience sharing and discussion. The conference was also organized with the objective identifying the possibility of a regional action plan for diaspora engagement in development as well as facilitating the exchange of information and cooperation between countries of origin and destination especially in regard to labor migration.

In the era of regionalism, member states stressed that it is crucial to tap into the benefits of migration to enhance the development of their countries and region.  Moreover, vulnerabilities that induce economically motivated migration should be addressed through strengthening of livelihood options so that with properly managed migration, both host and countries of origin get mutual benefits.  It is also important to facilitate the integration of migrants who have often gained new insights, skills and knowledge while living aboard.

The IGAD-RCP on migration was established in 2010 with the aim of promoting the common position of IGAD member states and African Union as provided in the Migration Policy Framework for Africa and to facilitate regional dialogue and cooperation on migration policy issues amongst IGAD member states.