The IOM

From Noborders Network Wiki

The International Organisation Of Migration

see also:

• Campaigning Against The IOM
• Arguments Against IOM
• No border on Voluntary Return
• Voluntary Return Programme in the UK
• the official website of the IOM http://www.iom.int

The Role of IOM

Whilst some people suggest possible future global models of migration management,the Geneva Migration Group,the Berne-Initiative complex,and the IOM already represent core structures of such a regime. It is no coincidence that both,GMG and BI have been set up in the same time.Both bring together one group of the most important actors:nation states (BI)respectively international organisations (GMG).

Interestingly the IOM is involved in both.But both initiatives are characterised by internal divisions.Within the GMG the relation of the organisations involved is rather delicate, because each emphasises specific but contrasting values such as humanitarian protection (UNHCR),workers rights (ILO),or national (economic and security)interests (IOM).Furthermore,intergovernmental organisations are accountable to national governments,whilst international organisations are rather obliged to their clientele respectively the international community.

Furthermore,both models also reflect an organisational conflict,insofar it is disputed whether global problems are better dealt with by inter-governmental or by international organisations 5 .The conflict over the role of the UN during the Iraq war,illustrates that the US generally prefers intergovernmental policies.It appears doubtful that all these organisations will in the long run merge into one single international body.

In contrast,the IOM,which is involved in all these processes increases its influence,politically and geographically.Meanwhile,their member states,who are also involved in all these developments,have already decided at the general assembly in 2000 that IOM (2000b) shall take the lead.In how far the IOM will develop into a transnational agency depends on the discretion granted by its member states.

(based on an article by the noborder network)