This paper, published by December 18, fi rst studies the distinct characteristics of migration in the Middle East. Hardly any other part of the world includes countries where migrants outnumber the national population. The migration pattern generated by the Law of Return in Israel is also unique. Demographics are further affected by forced migration as the region hosts millions of refugees and internally displaced persons, some for over half a century, and others due to more recent confl icts. Last but not least, the Middle East is also a source of large numbers of emigrants to Europe and North America and experiments substantive intra-regional migration fl ows. The paper then details some of the main features of the ICRMW and illustrates the use/relevance of the Convention to protect migrant workers in Middle East states that have ratifi ed it - and even non states parties when its provisions are invoked by independent investigation mechanisms. This section includes research fi ndings from international and regional non-governmental organisations (NGOs), United Nations (UN) independent human rights experts, as well as media, government and academic sources. In many respects, the Middle East provides exemplary case studies that demonstrate why a specific human rights treaty to protect migrant workers and members of their families is necessary. Finally, a short section looks at challenges for ICRMW ratifi cation in the region.