The Pohnpei State Legislature has formally recognized the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for its significant contributions to disaster preparedness and response across the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). On 3 June 2025, lawmakers passed a resolution commending IOM’s efforts in safeguarding lives, minimizing disaster risks, and reaching remote and vulnerable communities.
For more than 15 years, IOM has operated in the North Pacific, responding to emergencies and supporting safe and inclusive migration. Its programs have assisted communities in adapting to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and climate-related threats, especially those most vulnerable to displacement and infrastructure loss.
The resolution specifically notes IOM’s post-disaster recovery assistance following major typhoons such as Maysak, Jelawat, and Wutip. This included rebuilding hundreds of homes and public structures, restoring farmland, and strengthening community resilience through reconstruction efforts guided by a “build back better” philosophy.
In response to the 2023 drought that impacted FSM, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau, IOM provided critical support. It delivered clean water and hygiene supplies to over 7,000 people across ten remote islands, addressing urgent humanitarian needs in geographically isolated locations.
Since beginning operations in 2009, IOM has advanced disaster risk reduction in the region through early warning systems, evacuation planning, community-based training, and emergency shelter programs. Its rights-based approach ensures that assistance is timely, inclusive, and tailored to local needs.
The organization has played a vital role in reaching remote island communities that often face logistical challenges during crises. In these areas, IOM has been instrumental in ensuring coordinated, fair, and effective disaster response.
Community participation has been central to IOM’s methodology. It actively engages women, youth, persons with disabilities, and traditional leaders to ensure that disaster preparedness reflects local realities and knowledge, strengthening governance and the sustainability of interventions.
The Legislature’s recognition comes amid growing climate-related risks for Pacific Island nations. IOM’s evolving work focuses on enhancing local capacity and inclusive disaster management systems, ensuring that populations can move safely when necessary and remain supported when they stay.
