Speaker's corner. IOM: trespassing on others' humanitarian space?

In: Forced migration review, Heft 22, S. 43 : il(s)

Abstract

Argues that since its creation in 1951, (initially as the Inter-Governmental Committee on Migration), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been guided by economic rather than humanitarian principles. In addition, it is a membership organization rather than a UN agency, and is accountable neither to international law nor to any democratically elected body. As such, questions are raised concerning its ability to adequately direct the postconflict return of internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers to their home countries. Criticisms about several IOM operations are reviewed, most notably about its lack of coordination with the Inter-Agency Internal Displacement Division (IAIDD). Issues relating to the IOM's adherence to human rights practices and refugee protection norms are also addressed.