IOM Ethiopia and Government Collaborate to Tackle Migration Challenges

Addis Ababa: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ethiopia and the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, along with other stakeholders, are working in close collaboration to tackle migration-related challenges, as revealed by IOM Senior Program Officer for Protection, Memory Mwale.According to Ethiopian News Agency, the senior program officer highlighted that IOM's role as an international partner is to support the Ethiopian government's priorities in migration management, which remains a key focus for the nation. Ethiopia is dedicated to managing migration safely and systematically by implementing a national partnership coalition that unites all stakeholders to adopt a holistic and comprehensive approach to migration.The coalition and migration management structures established by the Ethiopian Government underscore its commitment to addressing irregular migration, Mwale stated. She emphasized the importance of cooperation among all partners and stakeholders, noting the strong collaboration between IOM Ethiopia and the government.Recently, a five-year National Communication Strategy and Joint Strategic Plan were launched by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Government of Ethiopia. These initiatives aim to promote safe migration and deliver effective migration governance. The joint strategic plan, developed in conjunction with the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, is being closely implemented with other relevant stakeholders to address existing challenges.Mwale also mentioned that providing assistance to returnees is a significant area of cooperation between IOM and the Ethiopian government. Additionally, efforts to prevent irregular migration are being conducted through community conversations under the National Communication Strategy. IOM also provides alternatives for host communities and migrants, encouraging travel through regular channels.