The IPCM took part in the International Seminar, "The role of the social partners in the definition of a new model of labour relations to obtain decent, quality and long-lasting jobs" with the support of the European Commission, organised by FIDESTRA within the framework of the work of EZA and IPCM. Acting as hosts were the FIDESTRA President, Fernando Moura e Silva, and the Vice-president of IPCM, Maria Reina Martin.

IPCM's board of directors met in Sintra (Portugal) on 23 January to plan events for 2016, as well as deciding on the Platform's position vis-a-vis the international situation and setting up task forces.

The meeting was attended by IPCM President Rafael Rodríguez-Ponga; Vice-presidents Piergiorgio Sciaqua and Maria Reina Martín; Secretary Jesús Casado; Treasurer Josep Calvó; Vice-treasurer Francisco Domínguez; BoD member Álvaro Domingos; and Chindasvinto Moreno from the technical secretariat.

On International Migrants' Day we echoed the message from the Secretary General of United Nations, Ban Ki-moon, pledging to advance further with our work based on the respect for human rights, legislation and international standards, in a shared commitment not to leave anyone by the wayside.

That day we also wanted to remember all those displaced by war; the tragedy of those drowned in the Mediterranean; Sub-Saharan Africans in the straits; migrants from Central America to the United States; in short, all those people who risk their lives to escape death or who are looking for a better life, and the need to continue fighting against human trafficking.

For these reasons the International Platform for Cooperation and Migration (IPCM) continues to work for the recognition of asylum in the EU, a right which cannot be ignored. We appeal to the joint responsibility of the authorities of all countries concerned, whether countries of origin, transit or recipients, in order to assist these people, save lives and ensure the safety of all. And we urge greater attention towards and involvement in the problems arising from migration, in order to move towards a true European immigration policy.