IOM has been working closely with the Government of Canada and other partners to safely resettle Afghans in the country since August 2021.
“Safe and dignified resettlement of refugees globally has been a central part of IOM’s work for over 70 years, and we are proud to be part of Canada’s effort to provide shelter new for tens of thousands of vulnerable Afghans,” said IOM Director General Antônio Vitorino.
“We continue to work closely with the Government of Canada and other partners to ensure Afghans have the opportunity to safely restart their lives.”
‘A remarkable achievement’
The latest flight included Afghans who have supported Canada’s mission in Afghanistan, including family members of former interpreters and privately funded individuals. In the past, the program has also resettled members of many disadvantaged groups such as people with disabilities, women and girls, and LGBTIQ+ people.
“Welcoming 30,000 Afghans, although Afghanistan is one of the largest and most difficult resettlement efforts in Canadian history, it is an important achievement,” said Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada said.
He added: “This milestone is also a testament to the dedication of our partners, including IOM, who continue to help vulnerable Afghans travel safely on their journey to Afghanistan. Canada.
“I met newcomers and witnessed how they built new lives in Canada making us more determined than ever to help as many vulnerable Afghans as possible. We will continue to work with our partners to do everything we can to get Afghans in need of protection to safety, while providing them with the new home and support they need. to grow in Canada.”
An important partnership
This achievement is the result of hard work and collaboration between IOM, the Government of Canada, NGOs and other organizations operating in the region.
The IOM plays an important role in the relocation process, including coordinating resettlement flights, assisting with the application process, and providing pre-departure health assessments and pre-orientation sessions. depart to prepare Afghans for a new life in Canada. The UN agency also facilitates travel for them to their new home communities around the country.
IOM has recently worked with the Government of Canada to resettle Syrian and Iraqi refugees and will continue to work with its global partners to support Canada’s commitment to welcome at least 40,000 people. Afghanistan.
