Rome, Italy, 23 July 2023 – Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) President, H.E. Dr. Muhammad Al Jasser, has highlighted the complexities of migration during his address at the "International Conference on Development and Migration."

During his address, he enumerated the interconnected factors leading to migration, including poverty, economic inequality, political unrest, climate change, and general social distress.

“The Islamic Development Bank Group strives to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable populations, rekindling hope and improving welfare,” the IsDB Group President told the high-level participants at the international conference, which was opened by President of Italy’s Council of Ministers, the Rt. Hon. Giorgia Meloni.

He also touched upon irregular migration, which involves dangerous journeys across vast deserts and the Mediterranean, often leading to human trafficking, smuggling, and exploitation. "When done properly, migration could generate substantial remittance flows that contribute to economic development in origin countries. It could also help address labor shortages and drive economic growth in destination countries," H.E. Dr. Al Jasser stated.

He then reiterated that the IsDB Group, through some major initiatives, aims to address the root causes of migration and promote sustainable development. "As a member of the Multilateral Development Banks’ Coordination Platform on Economic Migration and Forced Displacement, we endeavor to implement this collectively," President Al Jasser stated.

Dr. Al Jasser explained that to tackle global migration challenges, some practical solutions are required, including investing in agriculture and local private sector and SMEs in high migration areas, and establishing safe and legal migration channels to enhance legal pathways.