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== International Day of Family Remittances == The International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR) is a globally recognized observance that takes place every year on June 16th. It acknowledges the significant contribution of over 200 million migrants who support their 800 million family members back home, creating a future of hope for their children. This day highlights the impact of remittances on households, communities, countries, and regions. The theme for this year’s observance focuses on the benefits of digital and financial inclusion when linked to remittances in helping remittance families achieve their own Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Understanding the International Day of Family Remittances
The IDFR is an observance adopted by the United Nations General Assembly. Its purpose is to raise awareness about the impact of remittances and encourage governments, private sector entities, and civil society to maximize their positive effects through individual and collective actions. The IDFR is fully recognized at the global level and is included as one of the key initiatives to implement the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration.

The Importance of Digital Technologies in Financial Inclusion
The IDFR 2023-24 campaign focuses on promoting digital technologies to enhance financial inclusion in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Digital remittances offer numerous advantages such as speed, convenience, and lower transaction costs compared to traditional methods. By leveraging digital technologies, more people can access formal financial services, contribute to the economy, and improve their overall well-being.

Achieving the Cost Reduction Target
SDG 10.c sets a target to reduce the transaction costs of migrant remittances to less than 3%. Currently, the average cost of transferring $200 across international boundaries to LMICs is around 6%. While mobile providers offer the best rates at 3.5%, digital channels account for less than 1% of transactions. The IDFR campaign aims to work towards achieving the cost reduction target mentioned in SDG 10.c by promoting innovative solutions and partnerships that drive down the costs of remittance transfers.

Recognizing the Resilience of Migrant Workers
The IDFR and the United Nations commend the determination and resilience of migrant workers, especially in light of challenges such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and recent geopolitical events. Migrant workers play a crucial role in supporting their families and communities. Their contributions should be acknowledged and supported through initiatives that promote their well-being and create an enabling environment for them to thrive.

Promoting Digital and Financial Solutions for Remittances
Governments, financial institutions, and international organizations are actively promoting digital and financial solutions to facilitate remittances. By leveraging technology and innovative platforms, remittance recipients can receive funds directly into their mobile wallets or bank accounts, eliminating the need for physical cash transactions. These digital solutions not only increase convenience but also improve transparency and security in remittance transfers.

Financial technology (fintech) companies are playing a crucial role in this space by developing user-friendly mobile applications and online platforms that facilitate low-cost and efficient remittance services. These platforms often provide competitive exchange rates and offer value-added services such as bill payments, savings accounts, and insurance options, further empowering remittance recipients to manage their finances effectively.

Get Involved: Share Your Practice!
The IDFR campaign encourages stakeholders to share their best practices and success stories in utilizing digital and financial solutions for remittances. This sharing of knowledge and experiences can inspire others to adopt similar strategies and contribute to the advancement of financial inclusion and cost reduction in remittance flows. Governments, financial institutions, fintech companies, and individuals are invited to participate by showcasing their initiatives and innovative approaches.

Background of the International Day of Family Remittances
The International Day of Family Remittances was first observed on June 16, 2015, following a unanimous decision by the United Nations General Assembly. The day was established to recognize the significant impact of remittances on the well-being and development of individuals and communities worldwide. Since then, it has become an annual event that brings attention to the challenges and opportunities associated with remittance flows.

Trends in Remittance Flows
Remittance flows have been steadily increasing over the years. In 2022, international remittances to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) amounted to US$626 billion. Such average monthly transfers of US$200-US$300 sent by migrant workers support many basic household needs and prove transformational for both households and local communities, enabling many families to achieve their own SDGs.

However, the cost of transferring US$200 across international boundaries to LMICs is still high, averaging 6% in the second quarter of 2022. Mobile providers offer the best rates at 3.5%, but less than 1% of transactions are made through digital channels. Remittance services are now much quicker and less expensive thanks to digital technologies.

Events in 2023
The International Day of Family Remittances in 2023 will be marked by various events and activities organized by governments, international organizations, and civil society groups. These events aim to raise awareness, share knowledge, and foster collaboration to maximize the impact of remittances on development. Panels, workshops, and seminars will provide platforms for discussions on digital innovations, policy frameworks, and inclusive financial systems.

== A War in a Pandemic: Migration and Remittance Flows == The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected global migration patterns and remittance flows. Travel restrictions, lockdowns, and economic uncertainties have disrupted the livelihoods of migrant workers, leading to a decline in remittance flows in certain regions. However, the resilience of migrant workers and the adoption of digital remittance solutions have helped mitigate the impact to some extent. The IDFR campaign acknowledges these challenges and emphasizes the importance of supporting migrant workers during these difficult times.

Remittances to Reach $630 billion in 2022
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, remittances have shown remarkable resilience. In 2022, global remittances to LMICs are projected to reach $630 billion, surpassing the pre-pandemic level of $596 billion in 2019. This highlights the essential role played by migrant workers in supporting their families and contributing to the economies of their home countries.

The Role of Remittances in Achieving the SDGs
Remittances play a vital role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) outlined by the United Nations. They contribute directly to poverty reduction (SDG 1), improved access to education (SDG 4), better healthcare (SDG 3), and increased access to financial services (SDG 9). By leveraging digital and financial solutions, remittances can have an even more significant impact on sustainable development, promoting economic growth and reducing inequality.

Transforming Remittances: Advancing Financial Inclusion and Cost Reduction for SDGs
The transformative power of digital and financial inclusion in remittances empowers families to achieve their own Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). IFAD, as custodian of the International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR), supports the #FamilyRemittances Campaign 2020-2030, aiming to help one billion people reach their SDGs. The IDFR 2023-24 campaign promotes digital technologies for financial inclusion in LMICs and targets a 3% cost reduction in remittances as outlined in SDG 10.c. Join us, along with the United Nations, in fostering resilience and inclusion by promoting digital and financial solutions for remittances.

Theme for International Day of Family Remittances
2023: Digital Remittances towards Financial Inclusion and Cost Reduction