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International Migrants Day

Show your support for International Migrants Day this year - join the movement and help protect the rights of all migrants around the world!

Friday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 18

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYSocial Justice

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

December 18 marks International Migrants Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the rights and contributions of migrants around the world. This day was established by the United Nations in 2000 as an opportunity to celebrate and honor the millions of people who have been forced to leave their homes in search of a better life. It is also a time to recognize the courage and resilience of those individuals who are striving for a better future for themselves and their families. So join us on December 18th in celebrating International Migrants Day!

TIMELINE

International Migrants Day Timeline

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which includes rights of individuals regarding freedom of movement, was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly.

Refugee Convention

The United Nations Refugee Convention laid down the legal obligations to protect refugees, marking the foundations for international refugee law.

Migrant Workers Convention

The International Convention on the Rights of All Migrant Workers and their Families was adopted by the UN General Assembly.

Establishment of International Migrants Day

Based on the Migrant Workers Convention's anniversary, United Nations officially proclaimed December 18 as International Migrants Day.

Global Compact for Migration

The UN General Assembly endorsed the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, a comprehensive framework for cooperation on international migration.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Migrants Day

Participate in a march

Organize or join a march to show your support for migrants. This can be done in any city and will draw attention to the rights of migrants and their contributions to society.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a local migrant center

Many cities have centers that are dedicated to helping migrants with their transition into a new country or city. Contact your local center and ask how you can help.

HOST

Host a potluck

Gather together friends, family, and newcomers to your community and host a potluck. Ask each person to bring a dish from their home country, share stories, and celebrate the different cultures that make up your community.

SUPPORT

Support local businesses

Visit the small businesses owned by immigrants in your area and offer them your support. Buy goods or services, share positive reviews online, or just drop by to say hello.

DONATE

Donate to an organization

Find an organization that is supporting migrants and donate money or time to help those in need. Many organizations are doing amazing work but need additional resources to reach more people.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Migrants Day is Important

Raises awareness about migrants’ rights

International Migrants Day serves as an important reminder that everyone has the right to migrate safely and with dignity without fear of persecution or exploitation. Every individual deserves access to basic human rights - no matter their nationality or origin.

It celebrates the contributions of migrants

Migrants often face prejudice, discrimination and exclusion from society. International Migrants Day is important because it gives us an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the immense contributions of these individuals in our communities.

Highlights the struggles of migrant workers

All too often, migration comes with a heavy financial, emotional, and physical cost for those who choose to leave their homes in search of better opportunities. International Migrants Day brings attention to the various struggles faced by migrant workers including exploitation, limited rights, and lack of access to healthcare and education.