The International Organization for Migration (IOM) says an estimated 304 million people, or nearly four percent of the world’s population, are currently living outside their country of birth.
In a statement issued on World Migrants Day, the agency said global migration continues to rise as people move in search work, safety, education, and family reunification.
Amy Pope, Director General of the IOM, said the organization is once again emphasizing migration as a story of opportunity, human progress, and shared development. She called for stronger and more resilient migration systems that protect people on the move while also supporting the communities that receive them.
She added that migrants contribute in many ways to the societies where they live and work, bringing skills, creativity, and entrepreneurship that strengthen local economics. According to the IOM, migrant workers support essential sectors including healthcare, construction, agriculture and technology and play a vital role in countries with ageing populations.
However, Pope warned that growing challenges are driving people to migrate. The IOM said that by the end of 2024, 83.4 million people had been internally displaced due to conflict, violence, and disasters.
The organization also noted that many migrants continue to face serious risks while crossing borders, particularly where safe and regular migration pathways are limited. These risks include dangerous sea and desert crossings, exploitation, and limited access to assistance and protection.
According to the IOM, the Mediterranean Sea remains one of the world’s deadliest migration routes, with more than 33,000 recorded deaths since 2014.
Afghans make up a significant portion of the global migrant population. Instability, poverty, and unemployment have forced millions of Afghan citizens to leave the country.
While Afghan migration increased following the Taliban’s return to power, the past two years have also seen a rise in returns and deportations. United Nations date show that more than four million Afghan migrants have returned to Afghanistan from Iran and Pakistan over the past two years.
