Algiers, July 22, 2024 – The Government of France and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are strengthening their collaboration by signing a 1 million EUR project titled “Strengthening Migration Management in Algeria” signed on Thursday, July 18.

The agreement aims to improve migration management by focusing on support for voluntary return and reintegration assistance to migrants, as well as protection and assistance of vulnerable migrants, in synergy with the EU-funded Migrant Protection, Return, and Reintegration Program (MPRR) in North Africa.

The project, which will be implemented over the next six months, aims to provide direct assistance to vulnerable migrants. This aid will include medical and psychosocial support, housing, and pre-departure assistance. It also aims to enhance the sustainable reintegration of migrants voluntarily returning to their communities of origin, including socio-economic support and vocational training.

The French Ambassador to Algeria, Stéphane Romatet, emphasized France's commitment to developing cooperation between the IOM, the European Union, France, and Algeria on migration and mobility issues.

“The signing of this agreement is part of the comprehensive dialogue conducted with the Algerian authorities, and the current dynamic is constructive and positive,” he said.

The UN Resident Coordinator in Algeria, Mr. Alejandro Alvarez, welcomed this initiative, stating, “We support Algeria’s efforts in migration management. This collaboration between Algeria, France, and the IOM is an example of effective partnership and international support for national initiatives.”

“I welcome this collaboration; this agreement represents a major advancement in our work on voluntary return and reintegration, as well as in migrant protection. It will significantly strengthen the successful implementation of our activities in the field, thereby providing essential support to vulnerable migrants,” said Ms. Heba Abdellatif, Interim Chief of Mission for IOM Algeria.

The project includes a capacity-building component aimed at supporting the Algerian government and its responsible institutions to strengthen their response capabilities to the needs of the most vulnerable migrant communities.

This joint initiative reflects the commitment of France and the IOM to effectively collaborate in addressing migration challenges in partnership with the Algerian government to promote the rights and well-being of vulnerable migrants.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives from the European Union delegation, the UN Resident Coordinator in Algeria, and representatives from the French Embassy in Algeria.

To read the press release in French, click here.

For more information, please contact: hbouguerche@iom.int