News 07 August 2026 IOM Chief’s Türkiye Visit Highlights Country’s Role in Shaping Future of Migration Governance

Ankara, 7 August 2026 - International Organization for Migration (IOM) Director General (DG) Amy Pope visited Türkiye for high-level discussions with government counterparts and partners on migration governance, regional stability and development, highlighting the country's growing role in shaping responses to regional mobility challenges. Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East, Türkiye plays a pivotal role in regional migration governance and cooperation, drawing on extensive experience in displacement, labour mobility, social cohesion, climate-related migration and voluntary returns. As migration patterns continue to evolve, discussions focused on strengthening cooperation to support resilience, economic opportunity and regional stability.

The visit comes as IOM marks 35 years of operations in Türkiye. Since establishing its presence in 1991, IOM has worked alongside national and local institutions, communities and international partners to support migration management, humanitarian response, disaster preparedness, labour mobility, social cohesion and evidence-based policymaking. Today, that cooperation increasingly focuses on long-term solutions that support regional connectivity, stability and shared prosperity.

"Türkiye demonstrates that when migration is supported by effective policies and coordinated action, it can move beyond a crisis-response to become a catalyst for economic growth and resilience," said DG Amy Pope.

Pope highlighted Türkiye's growing contribution to regional and global discussions on migration policy and practice. Discussions also explored how the country's experience can help inform responses to key mobility challenges, including displacement preparedness, labour mobility and safe and dignified voluntary returns.

There was focus on Syria's recovery. Particular focus was given to how investments in job opportunities and skills development can help communities, support long-term recovery and contribute to regional stability as people return.

"As mobility dynamics continue to evolve, countries have an opportunity to transform migration from a challenge to be managed into an opportunity to strengthen communities, address labour market needs and build a more prosperous future," adds DG Pope. "That requires long-term vision, strong partnerships and investments that benefit both people on the move and the communities that host them."

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