The International Organization for Migration (IOM) officially joined the United Nations system during an agreement signing ceremony in New York on Monday.

IOM Tajikistan Chief of Mission Dragan Aleksoski noted in his remarks that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) officially joined the UN system on September 19, 2016.

According to him, IOM’s association with the UN will be that of a “related organization” in a working relationship with full retention of its independence and essential characteristics.

“IOM will remain the global lead agency on migration, as an independent, autonomous intergovernmental organization with its own constitution and governance system.  IOM will continue to be an essential contributor in the field of migration and human mobility, in the protection of migrants’ rights, and in operational activities related to migrants, displaced people and migration-affected communities.

“In Tajikistan, where migration plays a significant role in the economy and national development, IOM addresses all aspects related to migration, migrants and their families.  IOM Tajikistan works in close cooperation with the Government of Tajikistan and other partners to ensure the rights of migrants and strengthening of the migration management system in Tajikistan,” Mr. Aleksoski said.