A nationwide information campaign to promote safe migration and to
advertise positive alternatives to irregular migration gets
underway today in Egypt.

The Italian-funded campaign, which is carried in close
partnership with Egypt's National Council of Childhood and
Motherhood, aims to raise awareness among young people of the
benefits of legal migration. Emphasis will be also placed on the
importance for young Egyptians to acquire professional and
linguistic skills that will enhance their ability to successfully
find employment both in Egypt and abroad.

The campaign will initially target families living in the
impoverished Governorate de Fayoum, which has traditionally
experienced high levels of migration towards Europe, particularly
of unaccompanied minors.   

As part of the campaign, the Egyptian and Italian governments
are planning to team up with IOM to facilitate access to education
and training for young people in the Governorate of Fayoum.

The campaign's motto "Challenge yourself, don't brave the sea"
will be echoed by Amr Waked, a prominent international Egyptian
actor who came to fame after his role alongside George Clooney in
the geopolitical thriller Syriana. 

For further information, please contact:

Piera F. Solinas

IOM Cairo, Tel: +202 2358 0011 (Ext. 169)

E-mail: "mailto:pfsolinas@iom.int">pfsolinas@iom.int