Published on: 2026-11-02
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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November 2, 2026 Refugees and Migrants
False information about migration is spreading more widely and rapidly, and artificial intelligence only amplifies this process. Disinformation turns anxiety into suspicion and people into targets. This was warned on Monday by the Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope.
According to her, public trust worldwide is being subjected to increasing challenges. Speaking at the opening of the International Dialogue on Migration in Geneva, Pope noted that economic uncertainty, conflicts, and climate change are testing both governments and local communities.
“People’s concerns are real, and we must take them seriously. We must also honestly acknowledge where our systems fail,” said the head of IOM. “Trust cannot be restored by facts and figures alone. Institutions must listen to people and take action, even when what they hear is unpleasant.”
The space for cooperation is narrowing
IOM warns that false and misleading perceptions of migrants spread through social networks and generative AI are increasing polarization and distrust in society. As trust is undermined, governments face growing resistance from the population and have fewer opportunities for dialogue.
Migrants are increasingly exposed to risks on the way. All this is happening against the backdrop of reduced development funding and pressure on international cooperation.
Today, more than 304 million people live outside the country where they were born, including 168 million labor migrants. Nearly half of all international migrants are women and girls, many of whom are particularly at risk of facing discrimination, violence, and exploitation.
Money transfers from migrants remain the most important source of support for many countries. About one billion people receive them – approximately every eighth inhabitant of the planet.
Three courses of action
Pope called for action in three directions. First, countries through which migration routes pass should jointly expand orderly migration pathways, strengthen protection and humane management at borders, as well as facilitate the return of people under decent conditions. Second, communities affected by disasters need timely investments so that people can stay at home if possible, and relocate safely if necessary. Third, reliable data and the voices of affected population groups should underpin decisions. At the same time, technologies must protect personal data and prevent bias.
“Trust is earned step by step. Every fulfilled agreement and every person we treat fairly strengthens cooperation,” Pope emphasized.
In May, at the International Forum on the Review of the Problems of International Migration, a record number of states and other parties reaffirmed their commitment to safe, orderly, and regular migration. In July 2027, the UN will assess the global progress in achieving the indicator under the Sustainable Development Goals related to migration governance. In September 2027, the SDG Summit will begin discussions on what will succeed the Agenda for the period up to 2030.
The International Dialogue on Migration – IOM’s main platform for discussing migration policy – is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Its results will be presented to the IOM Council in December.
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