 I am pleased to announce that IOM has chosen migration with dignity, has its theme for this year's International Migrants Day, which falls on Tuesday, 18 December. International Migrants Day is the occasion when we reaffirm that migration is a driving force for progress and development and I like the importance of governments cooperating to ensure migration that is safe, orderly and dignified. As I stated this month at the Ibero American Summit in Antigua, Guatemala, we are here to guarantee the fundamental rights of all migrant peoples, their well-being in conditions of security and dignity. One in seven people in the world is a migrant. War, climate change, demographics and the widening gap between economic have and have nots all contribute to humankind's growing reliance on migration as a means to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals, families and communities. Natural disasters and health calamities such as the current threat of Ebola in parts of Africa force more people to move every day. To address such challenges, IOM continues to work with member states at all points along the migration spectrum to improve access to safe and regular pathways. This includes promoting labor-migration partnerships and family reunification, providing clear information about the risks of irregular migration and supporting community stabilization and job creation efforts in countries of origin. IOM has on International Migrants Day called for urgent action to save the lives of migrants and prevent traffickers and smugglers from exploiting desperation to enrich themselves. Our data show that as of October 2018 at least 3,242 men, women and children have lost their lives on dangerous journeys in search of safer and more prosperous lives. For the 5th straight year we have witnessed the deaths of at least 2,000 irregular migrants seeking to reach Europe. Other regions where danger to migrants continues at alarming levels include Southeast Asia, North Africa, the Horn of Africa and parts of the Americas. As Director-General of IOM, I am calling on all member states and international organizations to join us in commemorating International Migrants Day on December 18 and advocating for safe, orderly and dignified migration for all.