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WHO WE AREThe International Organization for Migration (IOM) is part of the United Nations System as the leading inter-governmental organization promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM has had a presence in Georgia since 1993.
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Our WorkAs the leading inter-governmental organization promoting humane and orderly migration, IOM plays a key role to support the achievement of the 2030 Agenda through different areas of intervention that connect both humanitarian assistance and sustainable development. Across Georgia, IOM provides a comprehensive response to the humanitarian needs of migrants, internally displaced persons, returnees and host communities.
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IOM Georgia and EU Celebrate International Migrants Day with a Spotlight on Safe Migration and Human Trafficking Prevention
Tbilisi, 18 December 2024: The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Mission in Georgia, in partnership with the European Union, marked the International Migrants Day with a public event aimed at fostering awareness about safe and regular migration pathways and the dangers of human trafficking.
A series of interactive forum theatre performances were conducted in Tbilisi and three provinces in Eastern Georgia to highlight the specific migratory context of Georgia and empower individuals with knowledge how to navigate migration opportunities safely while understanding the risks of exploitation.
"The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is pleased to collaborate with Forum Theatre on this initiative - to disseminate accurate information regarding migration, with the support of the European Union. Our goal is to enable individuals to make informed and responsible decisions about migration. Historically, migration has been a natural part of human experience, but it is crucial that it occurs safely and benefits all parties involved—the migrant, the country of origin, and the host country," – commented Lars Johan Lonnback, Chief of Mission of IOM Georgia.
The three short plays addressed topics relevant to Georgia, highlighting issues within families and the country. In Georgia, youth and prospective migrants often lack critical information about the risks of human trafficking and are unaware of how to identify false job offers or access official sources of guidance. To address these vulnerabilities, IOM Georgia, working closely with the European Union, is conducting regular campaigns to inform communities about the risks of trafficking and the importance of safe migration practices.
“Regrettably, in Georgia, it is common for at least one family member to be involved in migration. Therefore, it is highly relevant for our society. For us – as a working group, it was very important and interesting because quite literally, we often brought the emotions and feelings of our audience members to life on stage”, - said Vano Kharashvili, Director of Forum Theatre.
As part of the project, six performances were held at five locations, namely Tbilisi, Rustavi, Gori, Tserovani and Marneuli. Each performance was well-received and engaging at all venues.
By promoting regular migration pathways, IOM envisions a world where migration is not only safe but also a positive force for development. This event marks another step toward that vision, encouraging informed decision-making, protecting migrant rights, and fostering understanding across communities.