The International Organization for Migration (IOM) plays a crucial role in supporting nations to develop effective and rights-based strategies for managing borders, particularly in times of crisis. With global challenges such as conflicts, climate change, environmental degradation, and uneven development leading to increased displacement and irregular migration, the need for robust border management initiatives is more pressing than ever.
As part of its technical cooperation efforts, IOM has developed the Humanitarian Border Management (HBM) model. This model aims to provide practical and sustainable solutions to enhance preparedness and establish effective response mechanisms for assisting populations affected by crises, including both nationals and non-nationals. Importantly, the HBM model ensures that border security is maintained while facilitating the movement of individuals in need during humanitarian emergencies.
Through the HBM initiatives, IOM offers technical support to its Member States across three key areas:
1. Strengthening cross-border humanitarian responses while maintaining national security and border integrity to safeguard the rights of crisis-affected populations.
2. Facilitating border governance in alignment with national sovereignty.
3. Ensuring border security measures are in place.
IOM’s expertise and technical cooperation enable countries to establish or enhance their response mechanisms to manage increased cross-border movements effectively.
By assisting Member States in developing robust migration and border management programs grounded in sound policies, laws, procedures, and information systems, IOM ensures timely responses to sudden crises. Well-managed crisis responses not only prevent border closures but also address fundamental rights and needs promptly while effectively tackling humanitarian emergencies.
