Second Mekong Dialogue on Labor Mobility Meeting Report

On 26 April 2024, the Kingdom of Cambodia hosted the second Mekong Dialogue on Labour Mobility, chaired by H.E. Mr. Hou Vudthy, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training of Cambodia. This dialogue was conducted within the framework of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Economic Cooperation Program and with the support of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM). Its primary aim was to enhance cooperation on labor mobility through a multi-stakeholder approach among the Mekong countries and development partners

The inaugural Mekong Dialogue on Labour Mobility, held on 30 May 2022, was instrumental in providing a platform for migration experts and stakeholders in the GMS to engage in collective discussions and share knowledge regarding economic recovery and migration management. Recognizing the positive impact of well-governed migration on sustainable development, the second Mekong dialogue aimed to explore opportunities for action and partnership among Mekong countries by focusing on areas that contribute to the implementation of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM). The dialogue focused on facilitating regular pathways for migration (GCM Objectives 5 and 6); addressing the nexus between climate change and labor mobility (GCM Objective 2); and enhancing remittances and financial inclusion (GCM Objective 20).

Expert speakers from esteemed organizations such as ADB, IOM, International Labour Organization (ILO), and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) spearheaded the discussions, contributing valuable insights. Concurrently, government representatives from across the Mekong countries actively participated and shared their experiences. The event garnered participation from a diverse audience, both online and in person.

The purpose of this meeting report is to summarize the discussed topics and outline recommendations suggested in the dialogue for governments and stakeholders to consider when planning the next steps in advancing labor migration governance in the Mekong subregion.