Antananarivo, Madagascar – 30 July 2024 - The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is spearheading an initiative to address the rising challenges of unmanaged internal migration in Madagascar through a comprehensive human security approach. Funded by the United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS), this project aims to enhance the capacity of relevant actors to effectively manage migration-related insecurities and ensure sustainable benefits for vulnerable populations.

Recent years have seen a marked increase in internal migration from Madagascar's southern regions to urban centers and rural areas in the west and northwest. The dynamics driving this migration have evolved significantly, disrupting local, social, political, and economic frameworks. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these issues, intensifying insecurities in both the regions of origin and destination for migrants.

Roger-Charles Evina, Chief of Mission of IOM, emphasized the urgency of addressing these challenges.

"Insecurities in both the regions of origin and destination of migrants exacerbate the existing challenges since the COVID-19 crisis, such as rural banditry in the Androy region and land conflicts in the Menabe region. These complex challenges underline the urgency of an appropriate response that takes into account human security in all its dimensions."

The primary goal of the project is to raise awareness and promote the human security approach in tackling the insecurities arising from unmanaged internal migration. By integrating the human security concept into concrete actions, the project seeks to address the intertwined issues of environmental, governance, and health insecurities in Madagascar.

Addressing migration-related insecurities requires a comprehensive and holistic approach. Focusing on a single aspect of insecurity is insufficient; these challenges must be collectively addressed to ensure that populations feel secure, have opportunities to improve their well-being, and have their rights and dignity fully respected. The human security approach provides this integrated perspective, strengthening the capacity of stakeholders to respond effectively to the identified challenges.

The project's initial phase involves conducting a detailed study on the insecurities linked to unmanaged internal migration in the targeted regions. This research will inform subsequent activities, including training sessions to enhance understanding of the human security concept and develop appropriate strategies, policies, and initiatives.

On April 15, 2024, a workshop was held to present the research findings, bringing together 41 participants, including government representatives and international organizations. The presentations highlighted the study's relevance and provided recommendations for better managing internal migrations.

The study confirmed that human insecurity—encompassing economic, environmental, food, community, and personal aspects, as well as access to water, sanitation, and education—is a major driver of internal migration in Madagascar. Factors such as drought, food insecurity, and economic opportunities heavily influence migration decisions, with political, land, and health insecurities also playing significant roles.

A regional official noted the resulting tensions, stating that "Unmanaged internal migration has led to significant tensions between migrants and host communities in the Menabe region, exacerbating conflicts over resources and economic opportunities. Additionally, interethnic tensions amplified by migration have created an atmosphere of mistrust and conflict, with each group struggling for survival in the face of limited resources."

The research ensures that interventions are evidence-based, and its widespread dissemination aligns all actors with the same knowledge level. Following activities will focus on training stakeholders at central and regional levels on human security concepts, enabling them to conceptualize and implement responses to the insecurities related to unmanaged internal migration identified in the research.

For more information, please contact:
Marie Louise Gaelle Ravelomanankavana, mravelomanan@iom.int

About IOM:

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. As the leading international organization for migration, IOM acts with its partners in the international community to assist in meeting the growing operational challenges of migration management.

About UNDP:

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) works in nearly 170 countries and territories, helping to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and build resilience so countries can sustain progress.

About UNTFHS:

The United Nations Trust Fund for Human Security (UNTFHS) finances integrated initiatives that translate the concept of human security into practical actions, providing sustainable benefits to vulnerable individuals and communities.