Nairobi, Kenya | 5 October 2025—On the occasion of the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM), join millions around the world in pausing to reflect on a profound and enduring truth: migration is a fundamental part of the human story.

Few among us can claim a family history untouched by migration. This day is not only about those currently on the move—crossing borders, oceans, and continents in search of safety, opportunity, and hope—but also about those who have already settled, adapted, and contributed to societies far from their places of origin.

We are reminded of the Holy Family, themselves migrants—not by choice, but by necessity. Migration, indeed, is as old as humanity itself. Throughout history, people have moved to seek education and employment, to escape war or natural disasters, to flee persecution, or simply to build better lives. Each migrant or refugee brings with them more than possessions; they carry with them cultures, skills, and dreams.

While migration can present challenges, it also brings immense opportunity. Migrants and refugees enrich the societies they join with innovation, diversity, and resilience. It is vital that we resist narratives that reduce migrants and refugees to statistics or stereotypes. We must uphold their humanity and dignity.

We also recognize the hardships many migrants and refugees endure—discrimination, exploitation, violence, and rejection. And yet, in the face of adversity, they persevere. As a global community, we are called to act with justice and compassion, ensuring that all migrants and refugees are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect, regardless of origin or circumstance.

This year’s observance of the World Day of Migrants and Refugees occurs during the Jubilee Year of Hope—a time of restoration, renewal, and recommitment to justice. We are inspired by the ancient call:
“Proclaim liberty throughout all the land to all its inhabitants” (Leviticus 25:10).
It is a call to inclusion, to mercy, and to the restoration of those pushed to the margins.

To every migrant and refugee, we send this message:
You are not forgotten.
You are travellers of hope and bearers of dreams.
You embody courage and strength.

Even as you leave behind the familiar, you carry the light of possibility—not only for yourselves, but for the communities you now call home.

Let this day serve as a reminder to all:
Migration is not a crime. It is not a failure.
It is the courageous act of beginning again.

In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we urge leaders to open not only their borders, but also their hearts. Let laws be guided by justice—not fear. Let no human being be deemed “illegal” in a world we all share.

To every migrant and refugee across the globe:
Your journey is sacred.
Your presence is a gift.
Your life has value.
Let no rejection define you.
Let no barrier diminish your worth.
Your voice, your story, and your dreams are not burdens—they are blessings.

The Jubilee reminds us that restoration is possible, that hope can be rekindled, and that those who have been excluded can rise again.

As we mark this World Day of Migrants and Refugees, we recommit ourselves to building inclusive, compassionate societies—where diversity is celebrated, where human dignity is upheld, and where no one is left behind.

Let us remember: “We may come from different places, but we all share the same humanity.”

May God bless you all.

Photo by Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS), taken on International Literacy Day 2024. JRS continues to empower refugees through literacy and numeracy programmes that open doors to opportunity, dignity, and hope—reaffirming its commitment to quality education for learners of all ages.