IOM In Iran: A Vital Humanitarian Presence Since 1991
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has maintained a significant and enduring presence in Iran since 1991, establishing itself as a crucial humanitarian actor in a region grappling with complex migration dynamics. This long-standing commitment underscores IOM's dedication to addressing the multifaceted needs of migrants, internally displaced persons, and returnees, while also supporting the host communities that generously accommodate them.
From its initial establishment, IOM's mission in Iran has evolved, adapting to the ever-changing landscape of human mobility, particularly concerning the large influx and outflow of Afghan nationals. Through strategic partnerships and comprehensive programming, IOM in Iran strives to provide essential services, strengthen national capacities, and advocate for the rights and well-being of some of the world's most vulnerable populations.
Table of Contents
- The Enduring Presence of IOM in Iran
- Addressing Complex Humanitarian Needs
- The Challenge of Returnees: A Consistent High
- Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships
- Supporting Government Capacity and Policy
- Combating Human Trafficking and Smuggling
- Ensuring Transparency and Trust: IOM's Operational Principles
- Leadership at IOM Iran: A New Chapter
- Accessing Information on IOM's Work in Iran
The Enduring Presence of IOM in Iran
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) established its operations in Iran in 1991, marking the beginning of a sustained commitment to humanitarian assistance and migration management in the Islamic Republic. This initial presence laid the groundwork for decades of engagement, culminating in a formal cooperation agreement with the Iranian government signed in September 2002. This agreement solidified IOM's operational framework within the country, enabling it to expand its reach and deepen its impact across various sectors of humanitarian aid and migration support. IOM's longevity in Iran is a testament to the persistent and evolving humanitarian needs in the region, largely driven by the protracted crises in neighboring Afghanistan. The organization's ability to adapt its strategies and programs over more than three decades reflects a profound understanding of the complex socio-political landscape and the specific challenges faced by mobile populations. By maintaining a continuous dialogue and collaboration with Iranian authorities, IOM has been able to navigate intricate operational environments, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most. The enduring presence of IOM in Iran is not merely about maintaining an office; it signifies a deep-rooted partnership aimed at fostering resilience and providing life-saving assistance.A Legacy of Cooperation: From 1991 to Today
The journey of IOM in Iran from its inception in 1991 to its current multifaceted operations is a clear demonstration of a legacy built on cooperation and responsiveness. The formal agreement in 2002 was a critical milestone, providing the necessary legal and operational framework for IOM to implement a wide array of projects. This cooperation extends beyond mere programmatic implementation; it involves continuous coordination with various government counterparts to ensure that IOM's efforts align with national priorities and strategies for migration management. Over the years, this collaborative spirit has allowed IOM to address not only immediate humanitarian needs but also to contribute to strengthening Iran's capacity to manage migration flows more effectively. This includes supporting policy development, enhancing operational systems, and building human resources within relevant Iranian institutions. The long-standing nature of this partnership has fostered trust and mutual understanding, which are indispensable for effective humanitarian action in a country that hosts one of the largest refugee populations globally. The legacy of IOM in Iran is thus characterized by a commitment to partnership, adaptability, and a relentless focus on the well-being of vulnerable migrants and their host communities.Addressing Complex Humanitarian Needs
IOM's work in Iran is characterized by a comprehensive response to the diverse humanitarian needs of various vulnerable groups. Across the country, IOM provides a broad spectrum of services designed to offer direct assistance, foster well-being, and support reintegration efforts. This includes humanitarian direct assistance, which can range from providing shelter and non-food items to medical support, particularly crucial for newly arrived or returning populations. Beyond basic necessities, IOM also organizes recreational activities, recognizing the importance of psychosocial support and community engagement, especially for those who have experienced trauma or prolonged displacement. These activities contribute to mental health and social cohesion, vital components of a holistic humanitarian response. A significant portion of the projects implemented by IOM in Iran falls under IOM’s Comprehensive Action Plan (CAP) for Afghanistan and Neighbouring Countries. This ambitious plan seeks to mobilize USD 1.040 billion to further expand its operations, addressing the critical humanitarian and protection needs of affected populations in the region, whilst strengthening the resilience of Afghans. The CAP reflects the understanding that the challenges faced by Afghan populations are regional, requiring a coordinated and well-resourced response across borders. IOM's efforts in Iran are therefore intricately linked to a broader regional strategy, aiming to provide sustainable solutions and support for those impacted by ongoing crises.Comprehensive Response for Vulnerable Populations
IOM Iran prioritizes the needs of the most vulnerable individuals, ensuring that its interventions are targeted and impactful. This objective is achieved through rigorous protection needs assessments, which involve surveying different target groups in close coordination and collaboration with the Iranian authorities. This systematic approach allows IOM to identify specific vulnerabilities and tailor its assistance accordingly, whether for migrants, internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees, or the host communities that bear the brunt of large-scale population movements. The comprehensive nature of IOM's response means addressing immediate survival needs while also considering long-term solutions. For instance, while providing direct humanitarian aid, IOM also works to enhance the self-reliance of beneficiaries through various support mechanisms. The focus on coordination with Iranian authorities is paramount, ensuring that IOM's programs complement national efforts and are culturally sensitive and contextually appropriate. This collaborative framework is essential for effective humanitarian action, enabling IOM to maximize its reach and impact in safeguarding the rights and dignity of vulnerable populations in Iran.The Challenge of Returnees: A Consistent High
One of the most pressing humanitarian challenges in Iran is the consistently high number of returnees, particularly from Afghanistan. In 2023, IOM registered nearly 1 million returns from Iran, a staggering figure that highlights the immense scale of human mobility and the pressures it places on both sending and receiving countries. What makes this situation particularly challenging is the composition of these returns: 70 percent were undocumented, meaning they lacked formal legal status, and a significant 60 percent were forcibly returned. This sharp rise in forced returns from Iran has been a critical concern, with IOM Afghanistan specifically noting this trend, including a sharp rise in forced returns of Afghan nationals in May 2025. The sheer volume of returns, especially those that are undocumented and forced, presents profound humanitarian and logistical challenges. Undocumented returnees often lack the resources, documentation, and support networks necessary for a safe and dignified return and reintegration. Forced returns, while sometimes a consequence of national immigration policies, invariably raise protection concerns, as individuals may be returned to situations of insecurity or without adequate preparation. IOM's monitoring and registration of these returns provide vital data for understanding the dynamics of human mobility in the region and for advocating for more humane and orderly processes.Understanding the Dynamics of Forced Returns
The dynamics of forced returns from Iran are complex and multifaceted, driven by a combination of factors including economic pressures, policy shifts, and the ongoing instability in Afghanistan. The high percentage of forcibly returned individuals underscores the urgent need for enhanced protection measures and humanitarian assistance at the border and within Afghanistan. IOM operates a network of eight reception and transit centres across the border provinces of Herat and Nimroz (on the border with Iran) and Kandahar and Nangarhar (on the border with Pakistan), which are crucial for processing and assisting these returnees. These centers provide immediate relief, including food, water, medical screening, and basic shelter, to individuals who often arrive in vulnerable conditions. The data collected by IOM, such as the number and categories of Afghan returnees, is vital for informing humanitarian responses and for advocating for policies that prioritize the safety and dignity of returnees. Understanding these dynamics is not just about numbers; it's about recognizing the human stories behind the statistics, the reasons for their initial migration, the challenges they faced in Iran, and the precariousness of their return. IOM's role in monitoring and responding to these returns is central to mitigating the humanitarian impact of large-scale population movements.Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships
IOM Iran is not only engaged in direct humanitarian assistance but also plays a pivotal role in strategic initiatives that aim to enhance overall migration governance and disaster preparedness within the country. A significant development in this regard is IOM Iran's recent invitation to take the lead on the Disaster Risk Reduction and Disaster Management (DRRM) Results Group under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) in Iran. This leadership role positions IOM at the forefront of efforts to integrate migration considerations into national disaster preparedness and response plans, recognizing that migrants and displaced persons are often among the most vulnerable during crises. In addition to its DRRM leadership, IOM is currently facilitating the establishment of Iran's UN Migration Network. This initiative aims to ensure a harmonized, efficient, and effective approach to migration issues across the entire UN system operating in Iran. By fostering greater coordination among UN agencies, the network seeks to streamline efforts, avoid duplication, and maximize the collective impact of humanitarian and development interventions related to migration. These strategic initiatives highlight IOM's commitment to not only addressing immediate needs but also building sustainable capacities and fostering a more coherent approach to migration management at a systemic level.Leading Disaster Risk Reduction and Migration Networks
Taking the lead on the DRRM Results Group under the UNSDCF is a testament to IOM's expertise in understanding the nexus between migration and environmental hazards. This role involves working with various stakeholders to develop and implement strategies that reduce the vulnerability of communities to disasters, especially those that can trigger displacement or affect migrant populations. It underscores the proactive approach IOM takes, moving beyond reactive humanitarian aid to preventative measures that build resilience. Furthermore, facilitating Iran's UN Migration Network is a critical step towards comprehensive migration governance. By bringing together various UN entities, IOM helps ensure that migration is viewed through a holistic lens, encompassing human rights, development, health, and environmental considerations. This network will foster information sharing, joint programming, and coordinated advocacy, ultimately leading to more effective and rights-based migration policies and practices in Iran. These leadership roles underscore IOM's strategic vision and its capacity to convene and guide complex multi-stakeholder processes.Supporting Government Capacity and Policy
A core component of IOM's strategy in Iran is to support the Government of Iran in strengthening its policy, operational systems, human resources, and administrative and technical structures. This capacity-building effort is crucial for enabling the government to respond more effectively to migration and border management challenges, particularly during times of humanitarian crises. Iran, situated at a critical crossroads for regional migration, faces immense pressure in managing its borders and providing for large populations of migrants and refugees. IOM's support includes technical assistance, training programs, and the sharing of best practices in areas such as border management, data collection on migration flows, and the provision of humanitarian services. By enhancing the institutional capacity of Iranian authorities, IOM contributes to a more orderly, humane, and efficient management of migration. This collaborative approach ensures that the solutions are sustainable and locally owned, empowering Iran to address its unique migration challenges with greater self-sufficiency and expertise. This long-term investment in national capacity is a hallmark of IOM's commitment to sustainable development and effective governance in the migration sector.Combating Human Trafficking and Smuggling
The complex migration landscape in Iran, characterized by large-scale movements and vulnerable populations, unfortunately, creates fertile ground for illicit activities such as human trafficking and smuggling. Recognizing this grave concern, IOM aims to support Iran in combating trafficking in persons and smuggling of migrants. These criminal enterprises exploit the desperation of individuals seeking safety or better opportunities, often subjecting them to severe human rights abuses, forced labor, sexual exploitation, and even death. IOM's efforts in this area typically involve a multi-pronged approach. This includes supporting legislative and policy frameworks to prosecute traffickers and smugglers, enhancing the capacity of law enforcement and border officials to identify and intercept such operations, and crucially, providing protection and assistance to victims. Victim assistance can encompass safe shelter, medical and psychosocial support, legal aid, and voluntary return and reintegration assistance. By working with Iranian authorities, IOM seeks to dismantle these criminal networks, protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation, and promote safe, orderly, and dignified migration pathways. The fight against trafficking and smuggling is a critical aspect of IOM's broader mandate to protect migrants and uphold human dignity.Ensuring Transparency and Trust: IOM's Operational Principles
In its commitment to ethical conduct and protecting vulnerable individuals, IOM adheres to strict operational principles, particularly regarding its recruitment processes and financial transactions. IOM explicitly states that it "does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, written test, interview, processing) and will not ask for any information related to passwords or bank account details." This clear declaration serves as a vital safeguard against fraudulent schemes that often target job seekers and vulnerable migrants. Furthermore, IOM strongly advises candidates and the public to "verify all communications before sending any sensitive information." This warning is crucial in an age where phishing and scam attempts are rampant. To aid in verification, candidates are reminded that IOM's official domain name is the only legitimate source for its communications and job vacancies. The UN system in the Islamic Republic of Iran also ensures that its job vacancies are reflected only on its official website, reinforcing the importance of relying on verified sources. These transparent policies are fundamental to building and maintaining trust with the communities IOM serves and with the public at large, ensuring that its humanitarian mission remains untainted by illicit practices.Leadership at IOM Iran: A New Chapter
Leadership plays a crucial role in steering humanitarian operations, especially in complex environments like Iran. A new chapter for IOM in Iran commenced with the appointment of Salvador Gutierrez as the Chief of Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the Islamic Republic of Iran since 2025. Mr. Gutierrez brings a wealth of experience to this vital role, having commenced working with the United Nations in 2009. His extensive background within the UN system, particularly in the field of migration, positions him well to lead IOM's multifaceted operations in the country. Before his tenure in Iran, Mr. Gutierrez served as Head of Programmes with IOM in Colombia. This previous role would have provided him with invaluable experience in managing complex migration programs, coordinating with various stakeholders, and addressing diverse humanitarian challenges. His leadership is expected to build upon the strong foundation laid by his predecessors, further enhancing IOM's effectiveness and its collaborative relationship with the Iranian government and other partners. The direction under his leadership will be critical in navigating the evolving migration landscape and ensuring IOM's continued impact in Iran.Salvador Gutierrez: Chief of Mission
Salvador Gutierrez's appointment as Chief of Mission for IOM in Iran signifies a strategic move to bring seasoned leadership to one of IOM's most critical missions. His background, spanning over a decade within the United Nations system since 2009, demonstrates a deep understanding of international humanitarian principles and operational complexities. His prior experience as Head of Programmes with IOM in Colombia is particularly relevant, as Colombia also faces significant migration challenges, albeit with different dynamics. This experience would have honed his skills in program design, implementation, and evaluation, as well as in fostering partnerships with government entities and civil society organizations. As the new Chief of Mission, Mr. Gutierrez will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of IOM's operations in Iran, from direct humanitarian assistance to strategic capacity-building initiatives and policy advocacy. His leadership will be instrumental in ensuring that IOM's comprehensive action plan for Afghanistan and neighboring countries, particularly its ambitious funding goals, are met effectively. His tenure is anticipated to further strengthen the collaborative framework between IOM and the Government of Iran, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable migrants and host communities remain at the forefront of humanitarian efforts.Accessing Information on IOM's Work in Iran
For those seeking to understand the depth and breadth of IOM's ongoing work in Iran, a wealth of resources is readily available. The resources compiled on IOM's official pages highlight the International Organization for Migration's (IOM) activities through a variety of informative materials. These include detailed infosheets that provide concise overviews of specific projects and thematic areas, comprehensive situation reports that offer real-time updates on humanitarian conditions and IOM's response, and regular newsletters that keep stakeholders informed about key developments and achievements. Additionally, a variety of relevant publications related to migration offer in-depth analysis and research findings. These resources are invaluable for researchers, policymakers, humanitarian actors, and the general public interested in migration issues in Iran and the broader region. The information also includes other IOM global resources, providing a broader context of IOM's worldwide efforts. For specific inquiries or to access further details, contact information such as Iomkabulpsu@iom.int and the website afghanistan.iom.int are provided, particularly for information related to Afghan returnees and the graph showing the sharp rise in forced returns from Iran. These official channels ensure that accurate and up-to-date information is accessible, reinforcing IOM's commitment to transparency and accountability in its vital humanitarian mission.Conclusion
The presence of IOM in Iran, spanning over three decades since 1991, stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to addressing complex humanitarian and migration challenges in the region. From providing direct assistance to vulnerable migrants, internally displaced persons, and returnees, to leading strategic initiatives in disaster risk reduction and fostering inter-agency coordination, IOM's multifaceted approach has been instrumental. The consistently high number of returnees, particularly those undocumented and forcibly returned, underscores the critical nature of IOM's work in monitoring, assisting, and advocating for these populations. Under new leadership, IOM in Iran continues to support the Government of Iran in strengthening its capacities in migration and border management, and actively combats the heinous crimes of human trafficking and smuggling. Its adherence to principles of transparency and ethical conduct further solidifies its position as a trusted humanitarian partner. The comprehensive information available through IOM's official channels serves as a vital resource for understanding these complex dynamics. As the humanitarian landscape continues to evolve, IOM in Iran remains a beacon of hope and a vital actor, striving for a more humane and orderly management of migration. We invite you to delve deeper into the critical work of IOM in Iran by exploring the official resources mentioned in this article. Your understanding and support can contribute to raising awareness about the challenges faced by vulnerable populations and the ongoing efforts to address them. Share this article to spread the word about the vital humanitarian mission of IOM in Iran, and consider engaging with their reports and publications to stay informed.
Somali Migrants Return Home After Several Months Stranded in Iran
Somali Migrants Return Home After Several Months Stranded in Iran
IOM pledges more support for Iran - Tehran Times
