UN migration agency launches $7.9 bn appeal for record 140 million displaced

The United Nations’ International Organization for Migration (IOM) has issued its first-ever Annual Appeal for $7.9 billion to assist an estimated 140 million people forcibly displaced from their homes by conflict, climate change, and other crises.

This figure highlights the scale of global displacement and the urgent need for international cooperation to address it.

The appeal, launched Monday, coincides with the release of the IOM’s annual report on global migration trends, which reveals a record high of 117 million people forcibly displaced by the end of 2022.

This represents a 3.4 million increase from just the previous year, underlining the escalating pace of forced migration worldwide.

“Irregular and forced migration have reached unprecedented levels and the challenges we face are increasingly complex,” said IOM’s new director-general, Amy Pope, launching the Global Appeal in Geneva.

“The evidence is overwhelming that migration, when well-managed, is a major contributor to global prosperity and progress. We are at a critical moment in time, and we have designed this Appeal to help deliver on that promise. We can and must do better.”

The $7.9 billion requested by the IOM will be directed towards critical needs in the countries and territories experiencing significant displacement.

It will be a lifeline for millions in 162 countries and territories grappling with significant displacement.

These funds will fuel a comprehensive response:

1. $3.4 billion will be directed towards saving lives and protecting migrants in transit.
2. $2.7 billion will target initiatives that address the root causes of displacement, including climate change mitigation and adaptation programs.
3. $1.6 billion will be invested in promoting safe and orderly migration channels.
4. $163 million will be dedicated to modernizing the IOM’s internal operations to ensure efficient and effective assistance to those in need.

“Getting the job done requires greater investment from governments, the private sector, individual donors and other partners,” said Pope.

“This funding will address the large and widening gap between what we have, and what we need in order to do the job right. For this reason, we are for the first time proactively approaching all partners to fund this vital appeal.”

The IOM’s call to action echoes concerns raised by various humanitarian organizations and global leaders.

With displacement figures expected to climb further in the coming years due to factors like climate change and ongoing conflicts, international cooperation is crucial for ensuring adequate support and protection for displaced populations.

The success of the IOM’s $7.9 billion appeal will hinge on the commitment and contributions of governments, international organizations, private sector actors, and individuals.