Geneva-based UN migration agency details swingeing job cuts

IOM confirms staff cuts, including in Geneva Keystone-SDA

The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has confirmed massive staff reductions, which will also touch its Geneva headquarters.

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Some 6,000 members of staff have been affected worldwide by a freeze in United States funding, including more than 250 in Geneva.

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“These measures are intended to ensure that the IOM can continue to deliver essential humanitarian assistance to migrants and vulnerable communities around the world”, says the UN agency.

According to its estimates, it will face a 30% cut in its funding this year, mainly as a result of US President Donald Trump’s decision.

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Several media outlets had already revealed the cuts, particularly at headquarters, where around 20% of the workforce is based in Geneva. In addition to job cuts, the lack of funding is having serious consequences, exacerbating humanitarian crises and undermining support for displaced populations, adds the IOM.

The IOM works on the basis of a funding model for its projects, established by its member states. This approach allows a degree of flexibility, but it is also problematic if a major donor withdraws.

Many people will be made redundant, the IOM admits. Positions will be moved to regional offices and to lower-cost countries. Better collaboration with other humanitarian organisations is desirable.

But the international community must not put migration on the back burner, the UN agency insists. It will continue to work with the member states.

Translated from French with DeepL/mga

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