IOM and UNICEF Strengthen Alliance to Support and Empower Children Displaced by Climate Change

By Yvonne Misando

In the effort of protecting migrant and displaced children affected by climate change, International Organization for Migration (IOM) has renewed its partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). 

The partnership was formalized during the 29th UN Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP29), and aims to address the unique vulnerabilities faced by children in the context of climate-related migration and displacement. 

Key Aspects of the Partnership 

The partnership emphasizes the need to safeguard the rights and well-being of children who are increasingly displaced due to climate-related events such as extreme weather, floods, and droughts. Amy Pope, IOM’s Director General, noted that millions of children are driven from their homes each year due to these impacts, making them a critical focus of humanitarian efforts. 

The renewed agreement will operate under a four-year Strategic Collaboration Framework from 2024 to 2028, building on previous successful initiatives. This framework aims to enhance cooperation between IOM and UNICEF in ensuring that displaced children have access to essential social services and protection mechanisms. 

The partnership recognizes that children uprooted by climate shocks possess valuable insights and experiences that can inform effective solutions. Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s Executive Director, emphasized the importance of involving these young individuals in shaping policies and actions related to climate adaptation and mitigation.

With over 75 million internally displaced persons globally at the end of 2023, the agreement also focuses on addressing internal displacement challenges. Many children spend their formative years in displacement, often lacking access to education and facing various protection risks. The partnership aims to develop strategies that effectively respond to these challenges and promote children’s rights in all contexts. 

The IOM and UNICEF urge governments, donors, and private sectors to collaborate in protecting and empowering displaced children. This collective action is essential for achieving better outcomes for these vulnerable populations today while fostering resilient communities for the future.