The Foreign Ministers of Australia and the Republic of Indonesia co-chaired a Foreign Ministers’ Meeting of the Steering Group of the Bali Process on 21 February 2022. The meeting brought together Australia, Indonesia, New Zealand, Thailand, and senior representatives of IOM and UNHCR.
Outcomes
- Ministers discussed how COVID-19 continues to shape health, economic and social impacts and how – along with restricted travel – these have significantly impacted migration and increased risk factors for irregular movement.
- Ministers acknowledged the importance of the Bali Process closely following regional developments and fostering cooperation between members to prevent and respond to the issues relevant to its mandate.
- Ministers expressed deep concern about recent developments in the region, including in Myanmar and Afghanistan and the risks for regional security and stability.
- Ministers recognised the ongoing need for the creation of conditions to allow the voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of displaced persons.
- Ministers recognised the many Bali Process members that have continued to generously host displaced populations, provide regular, safe and orderly pathways for movement, and render assistance to people on the move in distress, and identify and support victims of trafficking and exploitation.
- Ministers also reiterated the importance of business engagement in helping to address supply chain transparency, ethical recruitment and worker redress, especially given the impact of COVID-19 on migrant workers.
- Ministers directed Senior Officials to advance planning and encouraged all members to consider opportunities to mark the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Bali Process in their own national capacity.
