The MaryJoe Foundation was honored to participate in the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) 2026 held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, joining global leaders, civil society organizations, policymakers, and advocates in advancing dialogue on safe, orderly, and regular migration.
The Foundation was represented by an esteemed delegation committed to promoting human dignity, equity, and inclusive migration systems.
Representing the Foundation during the global dialogue, Paola M GĂĽell highlighted the urgent need for stronger protections for migrants facing communication barriers and limited understanding of their legal rights. She emphasized the importance of migrant protection, language accessibility, legal literacy, and equitable access to essential services.
Drawing from the Foundation’s humanitarian work across the United States and Nigeria, the delegation emphasized that many migrants—especially women and children—continue to face serious challenges in accessing justice, healthcare, education, and social services.
One powerful example Paola shared during the discussion involved a woman who was wrongfully detained simply because she could not communicate effectively in English or fully understand her legal rights. Her experience reflects a broader global issue affecting countless vulnerable migrants.
According to national statistics, over 47% of immigrants in the United States have limited English proficiency, creating barriers that can directly impact legal outcomes, access to services, and personal safety.
The MaryJoe Foundation stressed that language access is not optional—it is essential. It determines whether migrants can:
Understand their rights
Access critical services
Advocate for themselves
Live with dignity and protection
The delegation reaffirmed the importance of the Global Compact for Migration, which calls for inclusive, rights-based systems that protect vulnerable populations and ensure that no one is left behind.
As a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering vulnerable children, distressed women, and struggling families across the United States and Nigeria, the MaryJoe Foundation remains committed to advocating for policies and humanitarian initiatives that uphold dignity, justice, and equal opportunity for all.
Through participation in international platforms such as IMRF 2026, the Foundation continues to strengthen its global engagement and partnerships while amplifying the voices of underserved communities worldwide.
Together, we can build a world where every voice is heard and every person is protected.