The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a Geneva-based United Nations agency, has embarked on an ambitious fundraising initiative with a goal of mobilizing $7.9 billion in 2024. This comprehensive funding drive aims to enhance global efforts in safeguarding migrants, reducing displacement, and expanding legal pathways for migration. The announcement comes at a critical juncture as migration-related challenges continue to intensify worldwide.
The primary objectives of the funding campaign include protecting the rights and well-being of migrants, mitigating forced displacement, and creating opportunities for legal migration. The IOM aims to secure financial support from governments, private sector entities, and individual donors to address the multifaceted issues associated with migration on a global scale.
Amy Pope, the Director General of IOM, emphasized the pivotal role of well-managed migration in contributing to global prosperity and progress. In a written statement, she underscored the importance of collective efforts to improve the management of migration, acknowledging the overwhelming evidence that supports its positive impact when handled effectively. Pope stated, “We can and must do better,” highlighting the urgency and significance of the fundraising campaign.
The funding drive aligns with the backdrop of a continually evolving global migration landscape. According to a report by IOM, the number of people compelled to move reached 117 million by the end of 2022. This figure includes a record-breaking 71 million individuals forcibly displaced within their own countries. The rising challenges of illegal immigration and asylum-seeking have fueled political debates and policy discussions, particularly in regions such as Europe, the United States, and beyond.
A significant portion of the fundraising goal, amounting to $2.7 billion, is dedicated to preventing forced displacement. This includes addressing situations where individuals are compelled to move due to various factors, including climate change. The allocation of funds towards climate-induced migration reflects the growing recognition of environmental factors as significant drivers of displacement and migration.
Amy Pope, who assumed the position of IOM Director General in October 2022, has emphasized collaboration with the private sector as a key strategy to tackle migration challenges. This inclusive approach aligns with the broader commitment to harness collective resources and expertise from various stakeholders.
The UN migration agency’s ambitious fundraising campaign represents a concerted effort to address the complex and pressing issues surrounding global migration. By mobilizing substantial financial support, the IOM seeks to reinforce the protection of migrants, reduce forced displacement, and facilitate legal migration pathways. As migration continues to be a critical global issue, the success of this funding initiative holds the potential to make meaningful strides towards a more secure, humane, and well-managed approach to the movement of people across borders.
