Iceland and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are strengthening their migration partnership as IOM Director General Amy Pope visits Reykjavik this week. The visit aims to deepen cooperation at a time when Iceland is putting in place its first full migration policy. Talks are focusing on migration trends in Iceland, across the Nordic region, and around the world.
Amy Pope said IOM is bringing its global experience to support Iceland in building a migration system that is fair, well-managed, and helpful to both migrants and local communities. She stressed that strong cooperation can help countries respond better to changing migration patterns.
IOM and the Government of Iceland have worked together since 2012. Over the years, this partnership has included meetings with senior leaders such as the Minister of Justice, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, and members of parliament. During this visit, discussions are also taking place with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs on links between migration, development, and humanitarian support.
Iceland has changed quickly in recent years. Migrants now make up about 18 percent of the country’s population of around 400,000 people. This growth is linked to labor market needs and also to protection concerns for vulnerable people. These changes show why Iceland needs clear policies that cover the full migration journey, from arrival and integration to possible return.
One key part of the partnership is the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme, run with the Icelandic Directorate of Immigration. This year marks ten years of cooperation on this program. In that time, more than 800 vulnerable migrants have been supported to return safely to their home countries and rebuild their lives.
Protection and inclusion are also important topics during the visit. Amy Pope is meeting civil society groups that work with migrants and are led by migrants. These meetings help IOM understand the real experiences of people living in Iceland and highlight how migrants contribute to society.
Looking ahead, IOM says expanding safe and regular migration pathways remains a global goal. The organization believes the partnership with Iceland can help turn migration policy into real action that supports people while also strengthening communities.
What is the AVRR programme? The Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration programme helps migrants who choose to return home to travel safely and receive support to restart their lives in their countries of origin.