Lagonisi, Greece – The Oragnisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, which is currently under Greek leadership, began three days of discussions Monday on labour migration management amid the global economic and financial crisis.

In her opening speech, the OSCE chairperson, Greek Foreign Dora Bakoyannis, urged OSCE states to increase cooperation on migration issues and develop comprehensive and effective policy frameworks.

“We have all witnessed the increasing trends of migration as an effect of globalisation. The recent developments of the financial and economic crisis complicate the problem and its multifaceted character call for a more focused and coordinated approach as a response of the international community,” she said.

The three-day meeting held at a resort along the Athens seaside will focus on the development impact of migration and gender- sensitive approaches im migration related policy making.

OSCE Secretary General Marc Perrin de Brichambaut emphasized the need to safeguard the rights of migrants in the face of the economic crisis.

“In troubled times, it is vital that we communicate clearly about the positive contribution that migrants make to our societies and also that we counter firmly any rise of xenophobia or scapegoating of migrant workers,” he said.

“Violations of human rights and threats to social cohesion cannot be accepted or ignored. These are out starting points.”

Goran Svilanovic, the Co-ordinator of OSCE Economic and Environmental Activities, said it was important to recognise the benefits of migration to both countries or origin and destination.

“Migration flows do have significant positive effects on national economies. Some of the wealthiest countries in the world have the highest proportion of immigrant workers, who, in fact do not substitute national workforce, but compliment it.

The OSCE was created during the Cold War era as an East-West forum aimed at conflict prevention and post-war rehabilitation. It now has 56 participating states from Europe, the Caucasus, Central Asia and North America. (dpa)