The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Human Concern International (HCI), Canada’s oldest Muslim relief organization, have signed a landmark USD 1 million Memorandum of Understanding to enhance protection systems and deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to people affected by crisis, displacement, and human trafficking.
Rooted in Islamic values and principles such as Zakat and Sadaqah, this partnership reflects a shared commitment to fighting exploitation and upholding human dignity. Through this collaboration, IOM and HCI aim to strengthen global efforts to eradicate human trafficking, end all forms of exploitation, and protect the rights and well-being of vulnerable communities.
“This agreement represents a meaningful step in strengthening IOM’s partnerships with faith-inspired organizations committed to dignity, freedom, and protection for all,” said Mohammed Abdiker, IOM Chief of Staff. “It reinforces the power of faith-based collaboration in addressing the root causes of exploitation and ensuring that no one is left behind. Together with HCI, we can translate compassion into tangible action for people affected by crises across the world.”
The partnership complements IOM’s ongoing work to engage diverse actors in delivering principled and effective humanitarian aid. It builds upon the establishment of IOM’s Islamic Philanthropy Fund (IPF) launched in February 2025, which channels faith-motivated giving to support humanitarian initiatives worldwide.
Mahmuda Khan, Global Chief Executive Officer of Human Concern International, highlighted the urgency of collective action amid rising global crises. “We are living in a time of unprecedented and overlapping challenges — conflict, displacement, economic instability, and climate shocks — all of which deepen the vulnerability of millions to exploitation and abuse,” she said. “No single organization can address these challenges alone. The solution lies in co-creating responses and uniting the compassion, expertise, and reach of NGOs while working directly with communities on the ground. Through this collaboration with IOM, we demonstrate how shared values and collective action can protect human dignity where it is most at risk.”
This new partnership will enhance IOM’s efforts to protect communities at risk of trafficking and exploitation in countries such as Bangladesh, Sudan, Libya, and Ukraine. It comes at a critical moment, as global humanitarian needs continue to escalate and millions of people face heightened vulnerability to human trafficking and abuse.
By joining forces, IOM and Human Concern International are setting a powerful example of faith-based solidarity in action — transforming compassion into impact and reinforcing the global fight against human trafficking and exploitation.
