Migration Policy and Research

Migration policy is often the subject of intense political debate and can often be based on populist sentiments. When guiding migration policy, it is essential to follow a data-led approach, using facts and well-founded analysis of the benefits and risks that movements of people pose. Migration policy and research has long been the complementary arm to IOM’s operations. Based on our worldwide experience, we are uniquely positioned to conduct research and offer guidance that advances the development of effective national, regional, and global migration management policies and strategies.

As the UK is a centre of migration-related learning, exploration, and organisational headquarters, we recognize the need to use IOM's expertise in migration policy and research to strengthen migration practices both within the UK and around the world. We aim to contribute balanced and evidence-based research to inform dialogue and policy within the UK. We work to strengthen relationships with partners in the academic sphere to further engage in research projects exploring innovative migration practices, identify migration trends and gaps, and measure the impact of migration.

Migration Policy 

IOM supports international dialogue with its Member States on migration issues and, on request, provides ad hoc policy advice on diverse migration management issues. For instance, IOM is involved in the drafting of the Global Compact on Migration.

We work towards providing additional platforms for dialogue, engaging new partners and, on request, providing policy advice founded on technical expertise. 

Migration Research

IOM’s research informs policy, provides technical inputs and advice to governments and institutions and identifies lessons learned and best practices. IOM’s publications, such as the World Migration Report and Migration Research Series, are a primary reference point for stakeholders interested in migration trends.

The creation of the Global Migration Data Analysis Centre (GMDAC) is IOM’s response to growing calls for comprehensive data on global migration trends. For instance, the Missing Migrants Project tracks deaths of migrants, including refugees and asylum-seekers, who have gone missing along mixed migration routes worldwide.