Overview:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has clarified its role in relation to a June 19 Island Times report on the departure of the first third-country national (TCN) under Palau’s U.S. immigration MOU. IOM confirmed it did not facilitate the individual’s departure and stated that the migrant left through their own arrangements.
According to International Organization for Migration, its Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program in Palau is only activated when individuals voluntarily request assistance to return to their country of origin or another country where they have legal right to enter. The agency emphasized that all participation is voluntary and initiated by the migrant, not IOM.
On June 19, Island Times published an article regarding the first deported migrant under U.S. immigration MOU, publishing that: “Representatives of the International Organization for Migration met with the individual during his brief stay. Sources with knowledge of the situation said IOM facilitated and assisted with his departure from the island.
IOM clarified in an email to Island Times that “At the request of the Government of Palau, IOM is providing support for Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) to third country nationals (TCNs) in Palau who wish to return voluntarily to their countries of origin” and “did not facilitate the departure and the individual returned through his own means.”
At the request of the Government of Palau, IOM is providing support for Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) to third-country nationals (TCNs) in Palau who wish to return voluntarily to their countries of origin and who opt to have IOM facilitate their return.
AVR is an IOM-led program. It begins when a migrant chooses to return to their country of origin or a country where they have the right to enter and stay, and requests IOM’s support to do so. IOM does not initiate returns. The migrant does.
Before any assistance is provided, IOM conducts individual counseling to ensure the person has accurate, neutral, and complete information about their options and what IOM can offer. The migrant confirms their consent in writing if they choose to proceed. They can ask questions at any time and withdraw without consequence.
Assistance may include: contact with consular offices regarding identity and travel documents, transportation and logistical support and tailored support for those in vulnerable situations including unaccompanied children, trafficking victims, and those with health needs, and post-arrival and reintegration assistance in the country of origin. (By: IOM)
