Japan contributes $39 million to support IOM operations worldwide

The Government of Japan has allocated USD 39 million to support International Organization for Migration (IOM) operations globally in 2026, in line with IOM’s Global Appeal, according to a press release issued on April 8, 2026. The contribution will enable IOM to assist vulnerable populations and strengthen border management in multiple countries facing conflict, disaster, and complex humanitarian crises.

Japan has been a consistent and valued partner of IOM for decades, helping ensure that vulnerable populations worldwide receive timely assistance. Activities funded through this contribution will be implemented in close coordination with recipient countries and partners, reflecting Japan’s long-standing leadership on humanitarian issues and security. Robust monitoring mechanisms will be applied to ensure transparency and results.

Up to 40 per cent of the contribution will advance IOM’s work across Sub-Saharan Africa, covering assistance for displaced populations, early warning systems, access to essential services and energy solutions, and improved border governance. Countries benefiting include Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Ghana, Mozambique, Somalia, Rwanda, and Uganda. Approximately 30 per cent of the funding is directed to Asia and the Pacific, where it will strengthen disaster risk reduction and provide durable shelter solutions in Cambodia, Fiji, the Marshall Islands, the Philippines, Solomon Islands, and Thailand. The funding will also address urgent humanitarian needs in Bangladesh and Myanmar, as well as efforts to combat trafficking in persons in Southeast Asia.

IOM Director General Amy Pope highlighted the importance of the partnership: At a time when so many people are facing crisis and uncertainty, the Government and people of Japan continue to show a deep sense of solidarity. Their support helps us reach families and communities who need it most – quickly, and with care – while also working alongside them to find lasting ways forward. We are truly grateful for this partnership.

Beyond Africa and Asia, Japan’s funding will support humanitarian relief and recovery in Ukraine, border management in Türkiye, reintegration of internally displaced persons in Iraq, El Salvador, and Yemen, and assistance to vulnerable migrants and returnees in Haiti and Venezuela.

The USD 39 million contribution spans a broad range of regions and operational priorities, underscoring Japan’s sustained commitment to global humanitarian action through IOM. Funding will be applied across conflict-affected, disaster-prone, and crisis-impacted countries to deliver targeted assistance in 2026. The breadth of the contribution reflects the global scale of IOM’s work under its current Global Appeal.