Mass Information

As millions of people move across borders each year, the need for information has become fundamental to all migration decisions. Distorted perceptions and insufficient information about the realities in the countries they are trying to reach increases the need for migrants to have access to information.

Most migrants are unaware of the practical, legal, social and economic consequences involved in moving to another country. This lack of awareness puts migrants at risk and undermines orderly migration.

IOM carries out information campaigns to increase the awareness of key stakeholders on a variety of issues:

PROTECTION OF MIGRANTS' RIGHTS
Labour migrants may face abuse as a result of ignorance of existing regulations and procedures. IOM carries out information campaigns to inform aspiring overseas workers of the requirements, procedures, and formalities of labour migration.

TRAFFICKING IN WOMEN AND CHILDREN
IOM information campaigns inform potential victims of trafficking of the methods used by traffickers and of the dangers and consequences.

HUMANITARIAN CRISIS
Information campaigns provide refugees and internally displaced persons basic information about the nature and extent of humanitarian efforts. They can also assist in resettlement, reconstruction and development.

RECONSTRUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT
Information campaigns at the initial stage of reconstruction and development projects can explain the purpose, scope and role of all parties involved, help build trust, dispel misconceptions, and ensure majority participation of affected parties.

MOVEMENTS AND RETURN
The plight of refugees and displaced persons being moved/resettled to safe but unknown destinations can be eased by giving them accurate and timely information about the journey and the short and long-term conditions awaiting them. For those wishing to return, up-to-date information on conditions prevailing at home and available reintegration assistance can help migrants make the decision to return.

PROMOTING THE IMAGE OF MIGRATION AND THE MIGRANT
Information campaigns targeted at the general public can promote the image of migrants, highlighting the positive contributions migrants make in their adopted countries.