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CONCLUSiON
The IDM workshop, “Migration and Transnationalism:
Opportunities and Challenges,” emphasized the need for
contemporary migration policymaking to take due account of
existing transnational realities. A critical aspect in ensuring the
adaptability of migration policies to the rapid changes in society
is the willingness of policymakers to engage in conceptual as well
as practical levels of inquiry over the experiences and responses
to migration and transnationalism. Multi-level transnational
cooperation amongst migrants, migrant associations and States,
as well as communities in countries of origin and destination, is
pivotal in achieving the best outcomes for all concerned parties.
While there are challenges associated with transnational migration,
on the whole, transnational migrants enrich the numerous spaces
they occupy and communities with which they engage. Migrants
carry knowledge, skills, and social connections wherever they go.
Their characteristics and multi-sited lives enable them to construct
bridges and opportunities for societies of origin and destination
alike. Policymakers and governments are challenged to move
beyond national migration policy formulation to consider the
present day realities and social changes occasioned by migration
and transnationalism and to translate these considerations into
effective policies with positive impacts for migrants and societies.
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