UN migration agency forced to restructure amid significant budget cuts

The funding cuts have severe repercussions for vulnerable migrant communities, exacerbating humanitarian crises and undermining essential support systems for displaced populations, the UN agency said in a statement on Tuesday.

The adjustments involve “scaling back or ending projects affecting over 6,000 staff members worldwide” and implementing a structural realignment at headquarters, reducing staffing by approximately 20 per cent – or more than 250 staff.

Necessary measures

“These measures are necessary to ensure that IOM can continue delivering lifesaving humanitarian assistance to migrants and vulnerable communities worldwide,” the statement continued.

“We aim to drive solutions for displaced populations and support governments in managing migration for the benefit of societies and migrants.”

IOM operates under a project-based funding model, established by its Member States, which allows for flexibility and responsiveness to global humanitarian needs.

However, when funding for specific projects ends the impacts can be far-reaching, particularly for vulnerable communities with limited support options.

The Organisation’s priority remains serving vulnerable populations despite the constrained funding environment, the statement stressed.

Affordability first

To achieve this, IOM is moving positions to lower-cost regional offices and country missions, streamlining staffing, and identifying opportunities to better coordinate with other humanitarians.

These decisions have been communicated to Member States and are built on the historic budget reform efforts passed by the IOM Council in 2022, IOM spelled out.

“These changes will save costs and enable us to extend greater support globally, providing essential humanitarian assistance in crises worldwide,” the statement said.

The necessary adaptations will also enable IOM to develop new funding, maintain essential oversight and accountability, and streamline operations.

Throughout this process, IOM has prioritised mitigating risks to both staff and operations by ensuring that reductions are applied strategically and in consultation with affected teams, while frontline assistance remains protected.

Staff dedication deeply valued

“We recognise the impact these decisions will have on colleagues who have dedicated years to IOM’s mission,” the statement underlined.

“We deeply value the dedication and service of our staff, past and present, who have worked tirelessly to support migrants and displaced communities worldwide.”

At a time when conflict, climate-induced disasters, and economic instability are driving record levels of displacement, migration is central to global security, stability, and sustainable development.

IOM called on the international community not to sideline migration governance. The agency said it remains committed to its core mission and ensuring that migration and displacement remain central to the global policy debate.