As world leaders gather in New York for the High-Level Week of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is emphasizing the need for stronger international dialogue and collective action to harness migration as a driver of development and prosperity. IOM Director General Amy Pope stressed that no country can manage migration alone, and that global cooperation is essential to transform migration from a divisive issue into a shared public good that benefits both people and societies. She highlighted the importance of multilateral responses that prioritize human rights, address challenges, and maximize the opportunities presented by human mobility.
During the UN General Assembly, Heads of State and Government are reviewing progress on the Sustainable Development Goals, advancing UN reform, and renewing commitments to multilateral systems while addressing pressing global challenges, with migration remaining a key priority. Migration is increasingly central to development, security, and human dignity, yet it is often sidelined in global governance discussions. Rising levels of displacement and mobility pressures driven by conflicts, disasters, and economic instability underline the urgent need for coordinated and anticipatory responses.
IOM is showcasing people-centered, Member State-led, and community-driven approaches that expand safe, regular, and orderly migration pathways, address displacement and labor needs, support returnees in rebuilding their lives, and strengthen resilience. The organization is also bolstering collaboration with the private sector, engaging businesses to develop innovative solutions that improve protections for migrants, address labor shortages, foster community cohesion, and generate sustainable funding at both global and local levels.
As the UN’s leading agency on migration and coordinator of the UN Migration Network, IOM works closely with Member States, partners, and communities to foster cooperation. With 97 percent of its staff based in the field, the organization leverages its operational reach and policy expertise to bridge divides, support governments, and ensure that migration contributes positively to development and social inclusion worldwide.
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