Second World War Refugees and the Origins of the IOM

Abstract

This chapter examines the origins of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in the context of the refugee crisis following World War II. It analyzes how post-war political tensions and the ideological divisions of the Cold War shaped the creation of this institution. Through a historical overview, the chapter explores the humanitarian and organizational challenges posed by the massive population displacements in Europe and the multilateral responses and initiatives led by the United States. It traces the evolution from early efforts by the United Nations Relief and Rehabilitation Administration (UNRRA) and the International Refugee Organization (IRO) to the establishment of the Intergovernmental Committee for European Migration (ICEM), the predecessor of the IOM. Finally, it highlights the impact of strategic and economic interests on the design of international migration policies and the development of a structured approach to global migration management.