The movement of people today, whether voluntary or forced, regular or undocumented, or within or beyond borders, constitutes a complex process highlighting some of the most tragic, intricate and contentious issues of governance and diplomatic relations. At the same time, migration remains, as it was for centuries, source of integration, prosperity and propagation of cultures, ideas, and values. The priorities of Africa concerning migration have been identified in many AU normative blueprints, including the 2006 Migration Policy Framework for Africa, and the African Common Position on Migration and Development. These documents emphasize the need for addressing displacement and fostering mobility. Displacement (forced migration) needs to be reduced as a matter of necessity and, eradicated when possible. Mobility, on the other hand, needs to be facilitated as an engine of integrative opportunity. Nevertheless, for mobility to be a positive force for integration and thus prosperity, it has to be legal, safe and orderly. This policy brief attempts to address these fundamental (basic) at the same time strategic (long-term) questions. It begins by identifying the challenges of global migration governance that the global compact needs to address. Finally, the brief advances recommendations that the AU and other entities that support pan-African positions on migration governance need to implement.
