Algiers, January 8, 2026 – The Director-General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Amy Pope, has called for a comprehensive and integrated approach to address the phenomenon of irregular migration, following meetings with several Algerian government ministers, including the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Interior, and Transportation.
In a statement to the Third Radio Channel, Pope explained that a significant number of migrants arriving from West African countries are seeking better opportunities and are affected by conflicts and climate change. However, they lack regular migration pathways, pushing them to resort to criminal networks.
The UN official emphasized the need to differentiate between various categories of migrants to provide appropriate responses, stressing the importance of prioritizing those fleeing conflict zones. She also highlighted the need to support migrants seeking economic opportunities with sustainable reintegration into their countries of origin, particularly through training and capacity building.
Pope pointed out that the situation of individuals fleeing conflicts, such as in Sudan, differs from that of other migrants who have primarily come for economic reasons in search of work. She emphasized the necessity of developing regular migration pathways that allow them to find employment legally.
In closing, the Director-General of the IOM commended Algeria’s role in addressing this phenomenon, expressing her admiration for the level of commitment and the approach adopted, as well as the extent of cooperation and partnership between the Algerian government and the International Organization for Migration. The IOM views Algeria as a key partner in managing migration flows in the region.
