The International Organization for Migration is requesting $4.7 billion to support displaced people in 2026
In a move reflecting the scale of the growing humanitarian challenges facing the world, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) a comprehensive global appeal for 2026, requesting $4.7 billion in urgent funding. This substantial funding aims to provide direct support to approximately 41 million displaced and on-the-job migrants worldwide, in an effort to promote safe and orderly migration and mitigate the risks faced by migrants amidst ongoing crises.
A turbulent global context and unprecedented challenges
This appeal comes at a time when the world is experiencing unprecedented geopolitical turmoil and natural disasters, which have exacerbated waves of forced displacement and irregular migration. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is working to shift the approach to these crises from purely emergency response to proactive planning. In this context, IOM Director General Amy Pope emphasized that the new appeal strategy focuses primarily on providing assistance before crises escalate and on offering safer and more organized pathways for migration, rather than forcing individuals to resort to perilous routes that often end in human tragedy.
Shocking figures on displacement and fragile environments
The data released by the organization reveals a grim reality: one in four people worldwide lives in fragile and unstable environments. The number of internally displaced persons has reached record highs, totaling approximately 83.4 million by the end of 2024. These figures reflect the depth of the humanitarian crisis and the urgent need for coordinated international intervention that goes beyond food aid to include strengthening the resilience of host and vulnerable communities.
Climate change: The new driver of displacement
Armed conflicts are no longer the sole cause of displacement; climate change has become a major player in reshaping the world's demographic landscape. Reports indicate that climate-related disasters alone displaced 9.8 million people in 2024, a worrying 27% increase compared to 2023. This rise coincides with increased risks of irregular migration, with more than 5,500 deaths or disappearances of migrants projected for 2025, highlighting the heavy price people pay in their search for safety.
Immigration as an economic and developmental opportunity
Despite the challenges, the organization emphasized the positive aspects of migration as an engine for economic development when managed effectively. Currently, there are 304 million international migrants, including 168 million workers who contribute significantly to global economies. This positive impact is reflected in the volume of remittances sent by migrants to their home countries, which reached $883 billion in 2024, providing a vital lifeline to many developing economies.
A call for flexible financing and sustainable solutions
The organization concluded its appeal by calling on the international community to adopt more flexible funding mechanisms that support long-term solutions rather than temporary ones. It announced its urgent need for $1.5 billion of the total required to provide shelter, clean water, healthcare, and basic services for displaced people, ensuring them a dignified life until their situation stabilizes.
