The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 in response to the large-scale displacement caused by World War II. Originally created to help resettle displaced people in Europe, the organization has since grown into the leading international body focused on migration. The IOM works with governments, international organizations, and civil society to promote safe, orderly, and humane migration. Its activities include humanitarian assistance, migration management, displacement tracking, and support for migrants and displaced populations around the world. Although it is not a specialized UN agency, the IOM became a related organization of the United Nations in 2016, strengthening its cooperation with the broader UN system. Its wide global presence allows it to respond to migration challenges at the local, regional, and international levels. Today, the IOM plays a central role in addressing migration issues worldwide, helping countries respond to displacement, protect vulnerable populations, and develop policies that support both migrants and host communities.

Assisted voluntary return (AVR) is a program led by the IOM that allows migrants to return to their home countries in a safe, informed, and dignified way, based on their own decisions. Return is often treated as a last step in migration policy. However, it must be understood as part of a broader protection framework that prioritizes migrant safety and long-term stability. Many migrants facing return decisions do so under constrained circumstances, such as lack of legal status, detention, or limited economic opportunities. Because of this, it is important that return processes are truly voluntary, meaning migrants have clear information, real choices, and are not forced or pressured into leaving. Support can include travel documents, transportation, temporary housing, and medical or counseling services. To encourage returns, governments must concern themselves with more than just the travel. People must believe in their ability to resume their lives in their original country through access to jobs, education, and community support. Without this, individuals may feel forced to migrate again, creating a cycle that does not solve the problem. In 2025, IOM helped more than 81,000 people return home from 115 countries and supported over 82,000 individuals with reintegration across 147 countries of origin. By building on these efforts, delegates can make voluntary return a more effective and ethical part of global migration management.

For many people around the world, the decision to migrate starts with a simple hope: finding a safer life or better job opportunities. However, when safe and legal options are limited, many migrants are forced to take dangerous, irregular routes that put them at risk of exploitation and abuse. Currently, over 304 million people are international migrants, including approximately 168 million workers whose skills are vital to support communities globally. Expanding legal pathways for migrant workers is therefore a key priority for the IOM, which works with governments to create safer, more accessible systems for people to move across borders. Legal pathways include work visas, education opportunities, and family reunification programs that allow migrants to work abroad while protecting their rights. These pathways help individuals build better futures and support economies by filling labor shortages and encouraging development. Despite these benefits, many migrants still face barriers such as strict immigration policies, lack of information, and unequal access to opportunities. IOM delegates must explore how countries can expand safe and inclusive migration options, strengthen legal protections, and reduce the need for dangerous migration while balancing national interests and global cooperation.