Migration

Authored by Irina Kuznetsova and Oksana Mikheieva, this Migration Research Series paper explores the impacts of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine on the individuals that were displaced before 2022. The authors argue that the pre-existing vulnerabilities of those stranded in occupied areas since February 2022 have been exacerbated, particularly at the intersections of displacement and immobility, and disability, older ag, and housing.

Authored by Petros Gkotsis, Sara Henriques, Evangelos Koukournesis, Elena Leleki, Constantinos Melachrinos, Maria Papaioannou, and Teddy Wilkin, this Migration Research Series paper highlights four research projects employed by The European Union Agency for Asylum (EUAA) that seek to understand displacement from Ukraine to the European Union. The projects range from emergency measures adopted by Member States, new indicators on registrations for temporary protection, approaches to forecasting, and an online survey of displaced Ukrainians detailing demographics, their country of origin, destination, and their future aspirations. The paper concludes with reflections on lessons learned noting future considerations for research timelines, interdisciplinary research teams, and the involvement of Member State experts.

El Diálogo Internacional sobre la Migración 2020, titulado “Crisis de la COVID-19: Reconcebir el papel de los migrantes y la movilidad humana para el logro de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible” tuvo lugar los días 15 y 16 de octubre de 2020. En él se celebró un intercambio muy oportuno de mejores prácticas y recomendaciones sobre cómo responder a los retos inmediatos y de largo plazo que plantea la pandemia para los migrantes y la movilidad humana. El evento congregó a gobiernos, expertos en salud y representantes de la sociedad civil, el sector privado y organizaciones juveniles, y consolidó el papel fundamental que desempeña el Diálogo al brindar un foro de debate sobre las cuestiones migratorias fundamentales del momento. En la presente publicación se resumen las deliberaciones de la sesión del Diálogo Internacional sobre la Migración. También se recopilan las experiencias y mejores prácticas para hacer frente a la pandemia de la COVID-19 y sus consecuencias para los migrantes, la migración y la movilidad. Además, se ofrece un conjunto de recomendaciones para promover la formulación de planes de recuperación socioeconómica que tengan en cuenta a los migrantes.

This Social Development Report, the fifth in this series, provides deep analysis of the status of marginalized and excluded population groups facing severe vulnerabilities in the Arab region. This report examines the region’s ability to meet its 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development promise of leaving no one behind. Using the Sustainable Development Goal framework, the report reveals startling realities, with approximately 187 million individuals in the region being left behind across critical dimensions including social protection and access to health, education and housing services. Through intersectional analysis, the report examines the root causes of inequality and showcases pioneering initiatives addressing these challenges. The report presents actionable policy recommendations to empower marginalized groups and ensure more inclusion and equity towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The report also highlights the urgency of integrating the leave no one behind framework into national strategies and calls for the reinvigoration of data collection and monitoring.

The Migration, Environment, and Climate Change (MECC) Country Report on Yemen by IOM explores the complex links between climate change, environmental degradation, and human mobility in Yemen. Given the country’s aridity, water scarcity, and vulnerability to climate-induced hazards—exacerbated by conflict—this study provides an evidence-based foundation for policy discussions and interventions. Utilizing qualitative mixed methods, including key informant interviews and focus group discussions, the report highlights how extreme weather events (floods, cyclones, wildfires, dust storms) and slow-onset environmental changes (drought, rising temperatures, soil degradation, and sea level rise) drive displacement, alter livelihoods, and exacerbate vulnerabilities. The findings underscore adaptive responses—such as makeshift repairs and community support—that remain insufficient amid Yemen’s humanitarian crisis. The report also examines migration dynamics, revealing how conflict, economic instability, and environmental degradation fuel internal displacement and migration through Yemen toward neighboring countries. Key challenges identified include governance gaps, resource scarcity, gender disparities, and deteriorating health and security conditions, making urgent policy action essential.

In 2024, IOM conducted four local Migration Governance Indicators (MGI) assessments in Ukraine, in coordination with the public authorities of Kharkiv City, Odesa City, Stryi Territorial Community and Lviv Oblast. The MGIs – IOM’s flagship initiative on migration governance – is a critical tool to support governments in assessing the comprehensiveness of their migration policies, as well as in identifying gaps and areas that could be strengthened. This report examines common well-developed policy areas and those with potential for future development in local migration governance, based on data collected during the MGI assessments. Its aim is to improve understanding of local migration management and highlight existing challenges, thereby supporting evidence-based and well-informed decision-making and policy development in Ukraine.

The 2024 International Dialogue on Migration (IDM) has brought to the forefront the undeniable truth that migration, when effectively managed, holds the potential to be one of the greatest forces for global good, bearing benefits for migrants, their families and all the communities involved. Throughout this session, diverse stakeholders – from governments and international organizations to civil society and the private sector – came together with a shared vision: to harness the power of migration as a driver of sustainable development, social cohesion and economic resilience. The discussions emphasized that the key to unlocking this potential lies in the creation and strengthening of regular migration pathways. These pathways must be designed to be inclusive, responsive and rights-based, ensuring that all migrants, regardless of their origin or destination, are afforded the dignity and opportunities they deserve. The IDM 2024 showcased numerous innovative solutions and policies that are already making a difference, from national initiatives that align migration with labour market needs to multilateral efforts that enhance regional cooperation and protect vulnerable populations, as well as initiatives piloted by the private sector and efforts put in place by welcoming communities all around the world.

People living in the Arab region face various forms of inequality, many of them linked to unequal exposure to life-cycle risks. By providing financial protection against these risks, social protection systems can address inequalities. To be fully effective, social protection systems must take into account the particular needs of specific vulnerable groups such as informal workers, women and girls, older and younger people, persons with disabilities and migrants. This fourth edition of the Arab Inequality Report describes how social protection systems in the Arab region have evolved in response to economic developments and external shocks, and examines the varying degrees to which these systems provide effective protection and reduce inequalities. It concludes with practical policy recommendations for countries to ensure that their social protection systems are effective and responsive.

People living in the Arab region face various forms of inequality, many of them linked to unequal exposure to life-cycle risks. By providing financial protection against these risks, social protection systems can address inequalities. To be fully effective, social protection systems must take into account the particular needs of specific vulnerable groups such as informal workers, women and girls, older and younger people, persons with disabilities and migrants. This fourth edition of the Arab Inequality Report describes how social protection systems in the Arab region have evolved in response to economic developments and external shocks, and examines the varying degrees to which these systems provide effective protection and reduce inequalities. It concludes with practical policy recommendations for countries to ensure that their social protection systems are effective and responsive.

The migration-development nexus has witnessed increasing attention in recent years, both globally and regionally, reflecting the profound impact that population movements have on both countries of origin and of destination, both within and beyond the region. The 2024 edition of the Situation Report on International Migration in the Arab Region examines the critical nexus of migration and development in a region undergoing transformative demographic, economic, social and technological shifts. It offers an analysis of migration trends, challenges and opportunities, emphasizing the dual role of migration as both a driver and a product of development. Key insights highlight the potential of migration to contribute positively to host societies and countries of origin. Migrants bring valuable skills, knowledge and cultural diversity, while remittances support families, reduce poverty, and spur economic growth. However, achieving these outcomes requires policies that safeguard migrants’ rights and maximize their contributions to development. Regional cooperation is also essential, as the interconnected nature of Arab countries means migration policies in one country can significantly affect neighbouring nations. The present report provides a road map to harness migration’s potential, while addressing its challenges. By adopting a holistic and forward-looking approach, the Arab region can position migration as a source of strength, resilience and shared prosperity.