Thessaloniki – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the Municipality of Thessaloniki signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reinforcing their cooperation towards joint activities for the benefit of migrants, refugees and local communities. 

The two parties, based on their mandates and expertise, will work together to exchange good practices in areas such as labour migration, socioeconomic development and counter trafficking.  

Moreover, aiming at promoting equality and social cohesion, joint efforts will take place to address the needs of vulnerable populations, facilitating also their access to public services and affordable housing. 

“Thessaloniki is one of the largest cities in Greece with a great tradition in migration due to its long history of providing refuge to people fleeing war and conflicts”, said Sanja Celebic – Lukovac, Chief of IOM Mission in Greece.  

“In the recent years, we have witnessed great examples of integration activities and with this MoU, we seal our great collaboration with the Mayor of Thessaloniki, and we are looking forward to renewing our commitment to work together for the benefit of migrants and host communities”, she added. 

IOM will collaborate with the local Center for Integration of Migrants and Refugees (CIMR) and provide technical assistance and capacity building to local actors. 

“With our country being at the forefront of the migration issue and with the political developments in Europe shaping a new, concerning reality, the signing of the MoU with IOM reaffirms our commitment to universal values that we must uphold and promote. Our priority is to make the best possible use of the Organization's extensive experience, as it is our most important partner, to manage a complex challenge that requires planning, consistency, and determination. The contribution of IOM's personnel will be crucial in ensuring the smooth integration of refugees and migrants into the Greek society, providing them with the necessary resources and knowledge”, said Stelios Aggeloudis, Mayor of Thessaloniki. 

During the last decade, both sides have developed a close collaboration related to humane migration management, integration, and voluntary returns providing to people in need a comprehensive network of services.  

IOM’s presence in Thessaloniki began in January 2013 with the implementation of Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration programme, where a satellite office was kindly provided by the Μunicipality.