International Organization for Migration (IOM)

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is the leading intergovernmental organization in the field of migration. It operates as a related organization within the United Nations system, with 174 member states, 8 observer states, and offices in 171 countries. As of 2024, IOM operates with a budget of USD 3,672.5 million and a staff of 22,737 operating globally.

IOM's work is guided by three strategic objectives: saving lives and protecting people on the move, driving solutions to displacement, and facilitating pathways for regular migration. It provides operational assistance, technical cooperation, and capacity-building support to both migrants and governments, and addresses issues such as migrant smuggling, trafficking, and diaspora engagement.

IOM coordinates the UN Network on Migration and manages the Fund Management Unit for the Migration Multi-Partner Trust Fund, which supports implementation of the Global Compact for Migration (GCM). The organization relies on voluntary contributions to fund its global activities, with demand for its services growing significantly in recent years. Amy E. Pope serves as Director General.

As the preeminent global authority on migration management, IOM is highly relevant to any innovation touching on displacement, cross-border movement, migrant services, or international humanitarian response.