The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched a new project aimed at enhancing the capacity of border control and response to infectious diseases in Pacific Island Countries, with the objective of supporting socio-economic recovery from COVID-19. The project, which has received funding of over USD 6.9 million from the Government of Japan, will involve close collaboration between the IOM, the Pacific Immigration Development Community (PIDC), and the governments of several Pacific Island Countries.
The project’s primary objective is to improve border management systems in the Pacific Island Countries through the implementation of advanced technology, equipment, and capacity-building initiatives. This will include the establishment of an electronic travel authorization system, the upgrading of existing border management systems, and the provision of specialized training and equipment for border officials.
The project launch also marks the opening of the IOM Country Office in Apia, Samoa. The new office will support the Government of Samoa and other regional bodies in the Pacific with a range of services related to migration, including labour migration, human trafficking, and assistance to migrants in vulnerable situations.
The project aligns with the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Continent, which seeks to build a resilient Pacific Region of peace, harmony, security, social inclusion, and prosperity for all Pacific communities. The strategy, developed by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, aims to promote sustainable development, enhance climate resilience, and support the conservation and management of marine resources. The IOM’s project will contribute to these objectives by improving border management and response to infectious diseases in the region, which will help to promote socio-economic recovery from COVID-19 and enhance regional security and stability.
