International Organization for Migration Director General Amy Pope has met with top government officials in Spain to boost cooperation on migration governance and promote safe and legal migration pathways.
During her two-day visit to Madrid, Pope held talks with key Spanish leaders, including Interior Minister Fernando Grande-Marlaska and Minister of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration Elma Saiz. She also met Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares Bueno and Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation Director Antón Leis.
The meetings focused on strengthening the long-standing partnership between Spain and the IOM, especially at a time when migration remains a major issue across Europe.
Speaking during the visit, Amy Pope praised Spain’s approach to migration, saying it offers an example for other countries. She highlighted how Spain is balancing legal migration pathways, job opportunities, and respect for human dignity.
According to Pope, migration policies should not treat economic needs and human rights as separate issues. Instead, she said both can work together to create better outcomes for migrants and host communities.
Spanish officials and the IOM agreed on the importance of working together to manage migration more effectively. Discussions covered key areas such as labour migration, migrant resettlement, diaspora engagement, and managing migration along Spain’s coastlines.
The partnership also aims to support Spain’s national resettlement programme, helping vulnerable migrants find safety while contributing to society.
Officials noted that well-managed labour migration can help meet workforce demands, support economic growth, and create opportunities for both migrants and local communities.
The visit comes at a time when countries across Europe are looking for better ways to manage migration flows while ensuring safety and fairness in the system.
Both Spain and the IOM reaffirmed their commitment to promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration through international cooperation and shared responsibility.
The talks in Madrid highlighted the importance of continued dialogue and collaboration as migration patterns evolve globally.