International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) Plenary
Statement delivered by Ms Minna-Liina Lind, Undersecretary for Global Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Estonia
New York, 7 May 2026
Excellencies,
Allow me to first thank those who have made the second IMRF (International Migration Review Forum) possible. This plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue, sharing best practices, and supporting coordinated responses.
Migration remains a defining issue of our time, shaped by a complex set of drivers, including conflict, economic instability, demographic change, and increasingly climate change. The GCM (Global Compact for Migration) and the IMRF provide a unique platform to promote safe, orderly and regular migration, prevent irregular movements, and strengthen governance along migratory routes.
Migration must not be instrumentalised for geopolitical gain, nor should human suffering be used as a tool of pressure. However, this is exactly what we have seen along the borders of Estonia’s neighbouring countries in recent years. We recognise the persistent challenges in combating trafficking in persons and migrant smuggling, including the role of organised criminal networks and the misuse of migration for political purposes. This also refers to Russia, recruiting migrants from various Asian and African countries through coordinated disinformation campaigns for participation in its ongoing war of aggression against Ukraine. This calls for stronger efforts to improve data, enhance victim identification and support, and ensure access to reliable information that counters disinformation.
Against this backdrop, reducing irregular migration while expanding safe and orderly regular pathways remains a key objective. This is a central element of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. For Estonia, ensuring its effective and consistent delivery is a clear priority, fully aligned with the GCM as well as human rights.
Despite our small population of just 1,3 million people, Estonia is home to around 240 000 migrants who have found security and stability there. We also saw firsthand how Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine rapidly sparked large-scale displacement, with millions forced to flee their homes. Estonia responded in solidarity, providing safe refuge to over 30,000 Ukrainians.
Beyond these challenges, climate change is increasingly becoming a significant driver of displacement. More frequent and severe extreme weather events disproportionately affect the most vulnerable and place additional pressure on regions already in fragile situations.
International cooperation remains at the heart of our efforts. No country can address migration challenges alone.
Thank you.
