Naif University hosts border governance and migrant protection seminar in Istanbul

The scientific seminar "Border Governance and Mechanisms for Migrant Protection" has begun in Istanbul, Turkey, organized by Naif Arab University for Security Sciences in partnership with the International Organization for Migration. The event brings together leading experts and specialists from Arab countries, as well as representatives from international organizations and institutions, and will run for three days.

During the opening session, Dr. Khaled bin Abdulaziz Al-Harfash, Vice President for External Relations at the university, emphasized that migration governance and border management have become major regional and international issues due to their political, economic, social, and security dimensions and their impact on the stability and development of nations.

Al-Harfash explained that recent crises and developments in the Arab region have increased the need to advance scientific and practical efforts to develop effective policies and mechanisms that balance security requirements with humanitarian and developmental considerations, aiming for safe and orderly migration.

He added that the university's strong relationship with the International Organization for Migration has led to the signing of a memorandum of understanding, which has facilitated the implementation of joint programs and activities. He also highlighted the university’s role as the scientific body of the Council of Arab Interior Ministers in sharing expertise and supporting key initiatives to strengthen joint Arab security cooperation.

International cooperation to enhance migrant protection

Dr. Mustafa Karatas, Head of the Migration Research Center at the Presidency of Migration Management in Turkey, praised the organization of the seminar, describing it as an effective platform for enhancing cooperation and exchanging expertise in border governance and combating irregular migration. He stressed that protecting human rights and caring for migrants are priorities in line with international law and humanitarian values.

Gerard Waite, Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration in Turkey, stated that the growing challenges in border governance require greater cooperation, knowledge exchange, capacity building, and translating policies into practical measures that safeguard the dignity and rights of migrants.

Similarly, Othman Belbeisi, IOM Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, highlighted the importance of cooperation with Naif University as a strategic partner in promoting regional dialogue and developing institutional capacities in border governance and migration.

Seminar themes and objectives

The seminar aims to review current cross-border migration trends in the Arab region, Turkey, and neighboring areas, and to identify best practices in border governance, return, readmission, and coordination. It also focuses on promoting public health by preventing the spread of diseases, ensuring access to healthcare, and fostering cross-border health cooperation.