Kenya is urging parliaments across the globe to take a proactive role in shaping migration policies that respect human rights and ensure fairness for all. National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula emphasized that legislative bodies must guide nations toward humane and orderly migration, amid increasing global movement and related challenges.
During a meeting at Parliament Buildings with members of Germany’s Federal Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee, led by Deputy Committee Member Derya Turk-Nachbaur, Wetang’ula highlighted Kenya’s long-standing positive relationship with Germany, which is rooted in mutual respect and development partnerships.
He voiced concern over the rise of practices worldwide that violate migrants’ rights, calling them inhumane and contrary to international standards.
“Kenya urges Germany to use its influential voice within the European Union to champion coordinated, humane and sustainable migration responses across Europe and beyond, in the interest of global order,” Wetang’ula said on Wednesday.
Wetang’ula said global instability makes it urgent for legislators to actively participate in discussions that promote peace and stability. He underlined that parliaments are central in crafting immigration laws and policies that uphold dignity and social order.
The Speaker also called for swift execution of the Comprehensive Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement between Kenya and Germany, which began in September 2024.
According to him, the pact provides structured pathways for skilled Kenyan workers to fill gaps in Germany’s labour market while benefiting both nations.
He stressed that deepening parliamentary engagement would strengthen cooperation in key sectors including education, technology, agriculture, security, and trade, while reinforcing Kenya’s bilateral and multilateral partnerships.
On international crises, Wetang’ula condemned the violence in Gaza and urged Germany to speak against the atrocities. He further criticized immigration enforcement practices in the United States, saying such measures undermine human dignity.
Responding, Turk-Nachbaur described Kenya as a regional economic anchor and a crucial contributor to stability. She highlighted Kenya’s constitution, political institutions, and devolution system as pillars supporting its leadership in the region.
The discussions included members of Kenya’s Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations, led by Belgut MP Nelson Koech, who called for continued collaboration on security and foreign policy. Other MPs encouraged stronger exchanges to share legislative experience and best practices between the two countries.
