International Organization for Migration (IOM)

IOM is an inter-governmental organization established in 1951. It has over 130 Member and Observing States , and partners with numerous international governmental programs and non-governmental organizations (NGO's). While not a member of the UN System, IOM is the leading worldwide international organization for migration. It is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society and acts with its partners to advance good management practices, understanding of migration issues, encourage social and economic development through migration and uphold the human dignity and well being of migrants. Migration includes refugees, displaced persons and other compelled to leave their homelands, and in need of international migration services. IOM Counter-Trafficking projects are geared toward the prevention of trafficking in persons, particularly women and children.