New Year’s Greeting From ICMC President Bishop Giorgio Bertin

Hello. My name is Bishop Giorgio Bertin, O.F.M. I am the President of the International Catholic Migration Commission – ICMC – and the Bishop of Djibouti. I am reaching out to you today from the shelter for unaccompanied migrant children operated by ICMC member Caritas Djibouti – of which I am also the President.  

This past year has been full of challenges. As the world continues to struggle with the global pandemic, new issues have emerged, compounding the many difficulties already faced by displaced people worldwide. These have included the loss of livelihoods, an increased risk of violence within households, a higher incidence of child marriage, and lack of access to healthcare for those affected by the virus.  

In the face of these new challenges, ICMC has found innovative ways to respond to the needs of displaced people and advocate on their behalf. Our staff has adapted its services to reach people in their homes during lockdowns. We have increased awareness-raising activities among at-risk populations and advocated for their rights and protection in international fora. 

None of these actions would have been possible without the support of our many partners and donors. As we reflect on the past year, I want to extend our gratitude to all who have made our work possible. On behalf of ICMC’s national members, its Governing Committee, Secretary General, and staff, I want to thank you for that support. It is much needed and deeply appreciated. 

Thanks to your support, ICMC will continue its mission of restoring dignity and inspiring change, of protecting and serving displaced people in need, in the coming year and for many more to come.  

Once again, thank you for your support. From everyone at ICMC, I wish you a very happy New Year.  

WHAT WE DO

ICMC provides assistance and protection to vulnerable people on the move and advocates for sustainable solutions for refugees and migrants.