China - The UN Migration Agency (IOM) Liaison Office to China this month organized a seminar on identification techniques relating to the return of irregular migrants.

The seminar in Hangzhou targeted 37 Chinese officials from the Bureau of Exit and Entry Administration (BEEA) of the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) and 20 provincial public security departments.

China, an increasingly important destination for international migrants, is faced with the challenge of a growing presence of irregular migrants within its borders. Ascertaining the identity of each migrant is an essential part of managing their return and reintegration.

IOM invited experts from Belgium, Portugal, the Netherlands, Norway and Spain to share their practical knowledge on identification techniques. Chinese and IOM experts also facilitated discussions on practical issues related to returns of irregular migrants.

Identification techniques currently used by national authorities include biometrics, information and communications technology (ICT) systems and background checks, specialized interviews, language tests and scientific tests.

Opening remarks were made by Ministry of Public Security Deputy Director General Liu Shibin, EU Delegation to China and Mongolia Counsellor Marcin Grabiec, and IOM Liaison Office to China Head Pär Liljert.

The seminar was part of the EU-China Migration and Mobility Support Project funded by the European Union Partnership Instrument.

For further information, please contact Etienne Micallef at the IOM Liaison Office to China, Tel: 13811209875, Email: emicallef@iom.int