WASHINGTON— The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has welcomed the U.S. resumption of critical humanitarian aid, a move authorized by Secretary of State Marco Rubio as part of efforts to reinforce U.S. leadership in global humanitarian response.
In a statement, IOM emphasized the growing need for assistance to returning migrants, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean, and said it is expanding efforts to help migrants return home, reintegrate, and rebuild their lives.
“In Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Panama, IOM has resumed its regional Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) programs, providing urgent support to vulnerable migrants who are unable or unwilling to remain where they are and need help returning home safely and with dignity,” the statement said.
The organization added that it is working closely with governments and humanitarian partners to ensure that returns are voluntary, sustainable, and managed in a safe, orderly, and dignified manner.
A surge in AVR requests in recent weeks underscores the program’s critical role in aiding stranded migrants, the agency said.
IOM also highlighted its longstanding work in Haiti, where thousands of migrants are returned each week. The organization provides urgent assistance upon arrival, temporary shelter, and reintegration support to help returnees settle back into their communities.
“These efforts not only address immediate humanitarian needs but also contribute to stability, security, and the creation of alternatives to irregular migration,” IOM said.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring returnees have access to reintegration opportunities, both individually and at the community level, so they can rebuild their lives in their home countries.
Over the past decades, IOM has facilitated the voluntary return of more than 1.5 million migrants globally, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable return and reintegration as a core component of responsible migration management.
With decades of experience partnering with governments—including the United States as a founding member and its largest donor—IOM said it remains committed to addressing migration challenges through effective, needs-driven solutions.
The agency said it looks forward to deepening its collaboration with the United States in the months and years ahead.
