Mercy Explores the Future of Migration Advocacy at the Reclaiming Space Forum

From 7th - 9th July, the “Reclaiming Space: Civil Society Strategy and Engagement Forum” took place in Geneva, Switzerland. The Reclaiming Space Forum gathered migration-focused civil society advocates focusing on capacity-building, strategic alignment, alliance-building, and forward-looking coordination across global migration governance processes.

This Forum was convened in a context of eroding protections of the human rights of migrants and increasing restrictions on the meaningful participation of civil society organizations, including migrant-led, grassroots, and marginalized communities. These constraints have been seen across global processes at the United Nations, such as the Global Compact for Migration (GCM) and the recent International Migration Review Forum, and outside the UN, such as at the Global Forum for Migration and Development (GFMD). This Forum was designed to bring together experienced leaders who have had the privilege of accessing these global decision-making spaces, along with grassroots migration experts who have not been afforded the same chances.

Cecilie Kern, Mercy Global Action’s Global Policy and Research Advocate, was invited to participate as a panelist, workshop facilitator, and participant in this Forum, which was designed as a space for peer exchange and practical learning. During the multistakeholder dialogue on day 1, Cecilie brought civil society priorities into conversation with Member States and UN representatives to identify openings for follow-up and creative engagement across the GFMD, GCM reviews, regional dialogues, thematic forums, and other spaces where migration governance is shaped. She participated in workshops on day 2 focused on social protection, labour rights, and human rights, as well as gender and participation.

Cecilie also led a workshop on day 3 to prepare participants for Mission Visits, providing skills training on how to prepare impactful advocacy messages and how to conduct successful meetings with Member State delegates. After this workshop, participants conducted fruitful discussions with four Missions to the UN in Geneva. Cecilie also joined other civil society leaders in a strategic evaluation and reflection on the strengths and weaknesses of our cooperative mechanisms, and how we can adapt to emerging challenges and opportunities.

Commenting on the gathering, Cecilie said: "It was an honour to be invited to share Mercy's expertise and leadership engaging in international migration policy spaces, and we're looking forward to future gatherings rooted in solidarity to protect civic space and uphold the rights of people on the move."

ENDS

24 Jul7 2026