Minsk, 28 March 2025 – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has launched a new project to improve border management in Belarus, protect migrants’ rights, and strengthen the country’s capacity and preparedness for a potential increase in cross-border migration. The first Project Steering Committee meeting, which will oversee the project’s progress, facilitate smooth decision-making, and ensure national ownership of its outcomes, brought together representatives from IOM, SBC, the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

With years of experience supporting governments worldwide in managing migration, IOM aims to contribute to a sustainable and effective border governance system in Belarus that upholds the rights of migrants while ensuring their safety and security in line with international standards. The project will assist the State Border Committee (SBC) and other stakeholders in enhancing their capacity, efficiency, and inter-agency cooperation, leading to improved border management.

Opening the first Steering Committee meeting Mahym Orazmuhammedova, Chief of the IOM Mission in Belarus, stated: “By fostering cooperation, building capacity, and promoting best practices, IOM aims to address migration challenges effectively and humanely.”

Aligned with IOM’s approach to border management, this project will help to streamline decision-making for vulnerable groups, ensuring their rights and interests are upheld. By integrating human rights, gender-responsive, and child-sensitive principles, the project promotes safe, orderly, and regular migration while safeguarding lives.

In his welcome speech, Viktor Kirichenko, Head of the International Cooperation Department of the State Border Committee, noted: “This project will not only significantly enhance the capacity of border service personnel working with various categories of irregular migrants but will also provide a fresh perspective on existing administrative procedures.”

Strengthening the Capacity of the State Border Committee of Belarus in Response to Possible Increased Migration at Borders Project  will be implemented by IOM in cooperation with the State Border Committee with financial support from the IOM Development Fund.

For more information, please contact:

Nadzeya Sinelnik, Communications Specialist, IOM Belarus, iomminsk@iom.int