Anti-migrant narratives undermine not just individual human rights but also global security, OSCE human rights head warns

WARSAW, 18 December 2025 – Greater efforts are needed to counter the growing hostility towards migrants and refugees in the OSCE region, which is often fuelled by disinformation and short-term political goals and is eroding social cohesion and weakening the stability and safety of our societies, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) said on the occasion of International Migrants Day. 

“While every country has the right to manage and secure its borders, this must always be done in line with international law and with full respect for the rights and dignity of all individuals,” said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian. “We increasingly see how disinformation and misleading content, including online, fuel fear and division instead of supporting the development of resilient and peaceful societies based on mutual respect.”

A climate of hostility can lead to an increase in hate crimes and discrimination against migrants, eroding social cohesion and weakening the security of the entire OSCE region. This makes it all the more important to counter anti-migrant narratives that portray people on the move as a threat rather than as individuals with rights and also skills and experience that can benefit host countries. Developing positive narratives is therefore not only important to ensure the human rights of migrants and refugees are respected, but also essential to strengthen our societies and security for all.

Balanced public discourse based on factual, objective information as well as migration policies that put human rights at their centre, are crucial for building trust within societies. It is also important for governments, civil society, media, and international organizations to work together to dismantle harmful narratives and uphold the dignity of every individual crossing borders.

Through its expert guidance, legal assistance, monitoring, and training, ODIHR plays a leading role in helping countries across the OSCE region implement their longstanding commitments to protect the rights of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees, including the obligation to ensure humane treatment at borders and access to international protection for those entitled to it. More information about ODIHR’s work and resources on migration is available here.

OSCE States have made clear commitments over many decades to uphold the rights of migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees, including the protection of migrant workers’ rights, the obligation to protect refugees in line with international law, and the duty to treat any individual crossing borders with dignity.