The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in partnership with the Pearl Initiative and the Shefa Fund, hosted emerging business and philanthropic leaders from the Gulf region for a four-day learning visit to Athens. The programme offered participants a first-hand look at Greece’s migration context and the operational realities of humanitarian assistance.
IOM’s Chief of Staff, Mohammed Abdiker, emphasized that responsible philanthropy begins with listening to communities and understanding their priorities. By engaging directly with affected populations, philanthropic support becomes more accountable, targeted, and effective in protecting dignity and delivering lasting results.
Ten business and philanthropic leaders participated in an immersive programme focused on practical learning, accountability, and responsible giving. Through site visits and interactive workshops, participants explored how strong governance and oversight can enhance the effectiveness of philanthropic contributions in humanitarian settings.
Dana and Haya Juffali of the Shefa Fund highlighted that philanthropy is not only about providing resources but also cultivating compassion, responsibility, and long-term commitment to service. The Next Gen Learning Trip allowed participants to engage directly with organizations and communities in Greece, learning alongside local partners and understanding the impact of their support.
During the visit, participants toured IOM-supported humanitarian facilities, including reception centres and service points, providing exposure to the daily realities faced by migrants and host communities. Since 2020, IOM has assisted over 300,000 people in Greece through reception services, healthcare, protection support, voluntary return, and integration programmes, demonstrating the ongoing need for coordinated humanitarian assistance.
Ralph Choueiri, Executive Director of the Pearl Initiative, noted that combining field exposure with structured learning offered participants valuable insight into how governance, accountability, and partnership approaches can strengthen humanitarian outcomes. The initiative is part of IOM’s broader efforts to help private and philanthropic partners make informed, transparent, and people-centred contributions to humanitarian action, building trust, accountability, and long-term impact.
The Shefa Fund focuses on improving health and development outcomes, particularly in the Middle East, by addressing health inequalities, supporting marginalized communities, and partnering with governments and organizations for long-term capacity building. The Pearl Initiative promotes governance, transparency, integrity, and responsible business practices in the Arab world, encouraging collective action, knowledge sharing, and leadership to strengthen ethical and inclusive business standards.
