News 19 May 2026 IOM and International Federation of the Green Crescent Partner to Support Migrants Mental Health

Geneva, 19 May 2026 - The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the International Federation of the Green Crescent (IFGC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Geneva to strengthen cooperation on mental health and psychosocial support, and addiction prevention for migrants and displaced communities.

"As humanitarian needs continue to grow worldwide, this partnership will help strengthen the prevention and treatment of substance use disorders and other addictive behaviours among migrants affected by crisis, displacement, and instability," said Vincent Houver, Director of IOM's Department of Mobility Pathways and Inclusion. It also reinforces our shared commitment to reducing stigma and discrimination, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive dignified support."

Under the agreement, IOM and IFGC will work together through joint training initiatives, research and knowledge-sharing, and coordinated activities at country level. The partnership will also explore joint programmes focused on addiction prevention and mental health support for migrant communities.

Secretary General of the International Federation of Green Crescent (IFGC), Amb. Dr. Mehmet Güllüoğlu, said: "Migration is a multidimensional process that goes far beyond physical relocation. It also involves many psychological, social, and cultural challenges. It is especially important to support the mental health of individuals affected by crises, wars, and forced displacement. As the IFGC, we value strengthening our knowledge and experience in the field of addiction prevention through international cooperation. We believe that through this agreement with IOM, we will contribute to protective and preventive efforts that support the psychosocial well-being of migrant communities."

The agreement reflects IOM's broader work to support the well-being of migrants and crisis-affected populations through partnerships with global and regional organizations.

IOM is the leading intergovernmental organization within the United Nations system dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration since 1951. Following the establishment of its Mental Health, Psychosocial Support and Intercultural Communication Unit in 1999, IOM has integrated mental health and psychosocial support into humanitarian response, recovery efforts, public health programmes, and migrant assistance services worldwide. In 2025, IOM provided mental health and psychosocial support to more than 1.4 million people across 99 countries.

Founded in Istanbul in 2016, the International Federation of Green Crescent brings together independent civil society organizations from 70 countries to promote healthier and more resilient communities through addiction prevention. IFGC supports its members through advocacy, training, and knowledge-sharing, addressing substance and behavioural addictions including tobacco, alcohol, drugs, gambling, and excessive technology use.

For more information, please visit IOM's Media Centre.