Algiers, January 7, 2026 – Algeria and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) signed an agreement Tuesday regarding the use of a hotel at the Algiers airport in Dar El Beida. The facility will provide temporary accommodation for irregular migrants registered in the Voluntary Return and Reintegration Assistance Program.
The signing ceremony was overseen by the Minister of Interior and Local Authorities, Said Saayoud. Following the event, Minister Saayoud stated that the visit of IOM Director General Amy Pope provided an opportunity for her to witness firsthand the significant resources that Algeria dedicates to managing irregular migration. Discussions also focused on the efforts and resources deployed to combat irregular migration.
Minister Saayoud emphasized the importance of addressing irregular migration at its source, in countries of origin. He noted that the IOM Director General expressed her satisfaction with Algeria’s commitment of both material and human resources to assist irregular migrants throughout the country.
Amy Pope commended Algeria’s responsible and humane approach to managing irregular migration, acknowledging the substantial resources allocated to this effort. She expressed the IOM’s readiness to further develop cooperation with Algeria to find sustainable solutions to irregular migration.
During the ceremony, the IOM recognized the Minister of Interior and Local Authorities and Transportation for his support of the organization’s various programs in Algeria. This agreement signifies a strengthened partnership between Algeria and the IOM in addressing the challenges of migration management.