The formal power of governments and bureaucracies is being subverted by the human agency embodied in migration networks and transnational communities. The failure of migration policies has become a major issue in many countries, with potentially high political costs for ruling parties and other powerful groups. A more equitable system of migration management, which seeks common ground between the interests of all those involved, is more likely to lead to sustainable outcomes. In the long run it is the best way avoiding exploitation, abuse and conflict. One could argue therefore that reform of migration policies is in everyone's long-term interests. However, it will only come about if there is genuine willingness to reduce global inequality and to work for greater democracy and participation in global governance. At present, the domination of global bodies like WTO and the IMF by northern elites does not augur well for the prospects of more equitable arrangements in the framework of some future global agreement on international migration.