Indian Migrant Rights Advocate Christine Nathan Re-elected ICMC President

ROME, November 12, 2026: Indian migrant rights advocate Christine Nathan has been re-elected President of the International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC) for a second consecutive four-year term, from 2026 to 2030, becoming the first Asian to lead the organisation for two successive terms.

Nathan, who belongs to the Archdiocese of Bombay, first assumed the presidency in 2022. She brings more than four decades of experience in trade union movements, workers’ rights and international labour advocacy, with a particular focus on the dignity and welfare of migrant and unskilled workers.

From 2006 to 2014, she served as Regional Specialist for Workers’ Education at the International Labour Organization (ILO), overseeing programmes across 21 countries in the Asia-Pacific region. She also contributed to international initiatives on migration governance and cooperation.

Her involvement in the Church’s migrant ministry includes membership in the Migrant and Labour Commission of the Archdiocese of Bombay and the Commission for Migrants of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI).

Her re-election took place during the ICMC Council Meeting held in Rome from November 9 to 12 at De La Salle, under the theme “Jesus Knocks at Your Door.”

In another significant development for Indian representation, Advocate Sr. Rani Punnaseril was elected to the ICMC Governing Council, representing Asia for the 2027–2030 term. She practises before the Supreme Court of India and serves on the CCBI Commission for Migrants in Delhi.

Nathan’s international responsibilities expanded earlier this year when Pope Leo XIV appointed her on March 30 as a member of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, recognising her experience and contribution to the welfare of migrants and refugees.

The Council also approved ICMC’s strategic priorities for 2027–2030, focusing on strengthening collaboration among bishops’ conferences worldwide, advancing advocacy and sustaining humanitarian assistance.

The meeting opened with a video message from Pope Leo XIV, who could not attend in person because of his Apostolic Visit to Latin America.

Participants examined the challenges facing migrants and refugees across different regions, including their vulnerability in hostile environments and the Church’s responsibility to accompany and support them. Discussions also addressed growing difficulties in securing funding and constraints on humanitarian assistance.

The re-election of Nathan and the appointment of Sr. Rani Punnaseril reinforce India's presence in international Catholic efforts to protect migrant rights and support displaced and vulnerable communities.

By Catholic Connect Reporter