IOM to resume full-scale operations in Syria with government approval
Renewed partnership aims to scale up humanitarian aid, support recovery, and facilitate dignified returns
DAMASCUS, Syria (MNTV) — The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has received formal approval from the Syrian government to re-establish its official presence in the country and expand humanitarian operations nationwide, to address Syria’s prolonged humanitarian and recovery needs.
In a statement issued from Geneva and Damascus on, IOM confirmed that Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates has endorsed the agency’s return, allowing it to scale up its support to communities affected by conflict, displacement, and climate-related disruptions.
“We are grateful for this endorsement and welcome the opportunity to work closely with national counterparts to meet urgent needs and support long-term recovery,” said IOM Director General Amy Pope.
“This decision opens the door for IOM and our partners to scale up assistance to people and communities affected by conflict, displacement, and climate-related challenges”, she added.
The move comes as Syria continues to grapple with the consequences of over 14 years of war, economic decline, and environmental stress.
An estimated 13 million people require humanitarian assistance, including 6.8 million internally displaced persons.
Basic services such as health care, clean water, education, housing, and livelihoods remain scarce, while critical infrastructure across much of the country has been severely damaged.
While IOM has been active in northwest Syria since 2014, the latest agreement enables the organization to expand its reach across the country. Officials say the renewed presence will support broader, coordinated responses in line with national priorities and stabilization efforts.
The expanded scope of IOM’s mission will not only include humanitarian relief but also enhanced programming in migration governance, counter-trafficking, and engagement with the Syrian diaspora.
These areas, officials say, are central to supporting institutional capacity and promoting safe, orderly migration.
As part of its renewed efforts, IOM will also expand its Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) program to provide more accurate and timely data on population movements and emerging needs.
This, the organization noted, will be vital for coordinated planning and targeted assistance among humanitarian and recovery actors.
Though many regions have seen improved stability, certain areas remain volatile, continuing to affect civilian safety and impeding reconstruction efforts. In this context, IOM emphasized the growing desire among Syrians—both inside the country and abroad—to return home.
Supporting voluntary, safe, and dignified returns will be a key pillar of IOM’s operations, with a focus on restoring essential services, rebuilding infrastructure, and fostering social cohesion in communities of return.
The organization affirmed it would work in close coordination with national authorities and in line with international humanitarian principles.
Calling for stronger international engagement, IOM urged donors and global partners to step up support for Syria’s recovery.
“A principled and inclusive response, underpinned by sustained donor engagement, is essential to help Syrians rebuild their lives and communities with safety, dignity, and hope,” the agency said.
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