By Matik Kueth
Interior Minister Angelina Teny has called for comprehensive legal frameworks to improve migration management in South Sudan. Speaking at a summit in Juba, she noted that South Sudan plays a key role as a source, destination, and transit hub for migrants.
“The best place to start for proper management because we recognize migration as a positive phenomenon. And our people see it that way. Our people don’t feel threatened and so on. But because it is a positive phenomenon, you must also manage the place for you to have the right policies and the right legal frameworks in place and so on. It will allow us to utilize this positive force. Possibly, it would contribute to our economy,” Teny said.
Teny underlined the actions being taken by the government to provide an organized approach to migration management.
She underscored the progress made in aligning national legislation with international standards, highlighting the signing of various treaties, including those relating to human trafficking, migrant smuggling, and anti-money laundering.
“We have identified gaps in our legal frameworks and are proceeding with the domestication of these international agreements,” she stated, emphasizing the need for robust legislation to address migration-related issues.
The interior minister acknowledged the need for migrant protection by announcing ongoing programs intended at protecting those at risk of statelessness, notably those escaping war in neighboring countries.
“With the support of the UNHCR, ILO, and other partners, we are currently registering thousands of refugees as part of our protective measures,” she revealed, stressing the need for a comprehensive civil registry.
She urged Western nations to promote legal migrant paths, eliminating reliance on traffickers and promoting safer migratory practices.
“With over 70 percent of our population under 30, South Sudan has the potential to contribute to labor forces in aging nations. We must work together to develop legal avenues for migration that benefit both our countries and those in need of young labor,” she explained.
Teny further pointed out the importance of collaboration and cooperation among neighboring countries and international partners as South Sudan negotiates its place in the East African Community and on a regional scale.