18 December is International Migrants Day, a day to remember migrants and reiterate the need to respect the rights and dignity of all human beings. It is a day to recognize the estimated 272 million migrants that are integral members of our societies, and to celebrate migrants’ contributions to our humanity. This year, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) focuses on social cohesion in recognition of migrants and the communities in which they can, and do, flourish. We learn, create, work, sing, dance and play together. We live together. Let's salute and support them. We pledge to make the future we believe in arrive for all of us.

Changing the Narrative: Photo Exhibition Showcases Migrant, Refugee Entrepreneurship

Art Summer Camp for Youth in Niger

For the past 11 years, the IOM and UNAOC have invited youth filmmakers to submit short videos exploring the topics of migration, diversity, social inclusion, and the prevention of xenophobia. This year, PLURAL+ received a record number of entries from 68+ countries. RSVP to attend the award ceremony taking place 13 November 10:00am-1:00pm (ECOSOC Chamber, NY). Press Release ->>

The Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Guidelines on the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in Humanitarian Action aim to assist humanitarian actors, governments and affected communities to coordinate, plan, implement, monitor and evaluate essential actions for the full inclusion of persons with disabilities in all sectors and phases of humanitarian action. The Guidelines are a key contribution to the Disability Inclusion Strategy launched by the Secretary-General last June.

The Game of Life

In 2012, Hamma was preparing for his high school exams in northern Mali. It had already been years since he had left his family and village to pursue his education elsewhere in the region. At the time, the stirrings of civil war were taking shape. Following several attacks, Hamma headed for the region’s capital, Gao, but his family had already made the 15-km-walk to the border with Niger. At their request, he left for Niger joining his parents and 7 siblings at UNHCR’s refugee camp. Many twists and turns later, Hamma obtained his degree and 6 months ago, he began working with IOM as a United Nations Volunteer. This is his inspiring story of resilience.

A Century of Migration in One Man’s Lifetime

Find A Way is a global initiative focusing on the resilience and strength of those affected by forced migration due to climate change.

Ukraine: A Child’s First Year of School, During a Sixth Year of Conflict