International Organization for Migration

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a United Nations agency specializing in migration that implements operational assistance programs for migrants, including migrant workers, refugees, and internally displaced persons. 173 states are members.

History

### Context and Precursor Organizations (1951 to 1989)

The IOM was founded in 1951 in response to the large number of internally and war refugees in Europe after the Second World War. Initially a logistics agency, it organized the transport of nearly one million migrants in the 1950s. The organization has undergone several name changes since its inception.

### Transition from PICMME

The IOM transitioned from the Provisional Intergovernmental Committee for the Movement of Migrants from Europe (PICMME) in 1951 to the Intergovernmental Committee for European Migration (ICEM), and later to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

Main Objectives

The main objectives of the IOM are:

* Managing migration for the benefit of all stakeholders
* Close cooperation with governments, representation, and protection of the interests of people who have chosen migration as a solution
* Preventing and combating human trafficking

Activities

The IOM works with governments, other international organizations, and civil society groups to ensure the orderly movement of refugees and others in need of international migration assistance throughout the world. Its activities include:

* Implementing operational assistance programs for migrants at national and intergovernmental levels
* Providing support for migrant workers, refugees, and internally displaced persons

Structure

The IOM is based in Geneva and has a Director General, currently António Vitorino.

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