Migration, justice and health: Reimagining the earth as one country and humankind its citizens

Migration is a significant feature of the political discourse around the world. It is bewildering and polarizing policy makers, leaders and communities, grappling to address the questions raised. The growing body of empirical data on migrant health have profound ethical relevance for example around risk-benefit-analysis, justice and discrimination at the individual, micro, meso and macro levels. The policy decisions and actions to address the issues appear to be often guided by self-interest and increasing pressures to protect national interests, and the current structures and systems. This paper briefly outlines and reflects on the ethical dimensions of migration, diversity and health and implications for policy, and practice. We argue that there is a case for new paradigms of global solidarity, social justice, and health equity in an interconnected world. Health care for migrants should be built on values of equal human rights and of shared humanity and the health and wellbeing of migrants and citizens should be promoted and protected alike. Migrant health is of global concern and international strategies for global governance are required. Migration policies it is suggested should be based on the understanding of interconnectedness of our societies and founded on shared humanity, and health equity for all. There is a case to reimagine the earth as one country and humankind its citizens with its implications on policy and practice and the organized efforts of society.