IOM Belgium and Luxembourg

IOM Belgium and Luxembourg IOM - UN Migration Agency in Belgium and Luxembourg

📍 Study Visit Highlights – Strengthening Migrant Protection TogetherOn 5 June, diaspora community leaders participating ...
17/06/2026

📍 Study Visit Highlights – Strengthening Migrant Protection Together

On 5 June, diaspora community leaders participating in IOM’s training programme on migrant protection and assistance in Belgium joined an enriching study visit across Brussels.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in learning and knowledge-sharing, starting with a visit to PAG-ASA to learn more about assistance provided to victims of human trafficking. This was followed by a visit to Fedasil, which provides guidance to migrants considering voluntary return.

💡After a wonderful lunch at the diaspora-led restaurant Au Grand Chelem - chez Roza, the group explored the Bordet Info Point, a vital hub offering informational, legal and medical support to people seeking international protection, transmigrants, and irregular migrants. The day concluded at the Ukrainian Voices RC Emergency Shelter, where participants saw firsthand how temporary refuge and pathways to housing are provided by a refugee-led team.

Following the study visit, participants joined a potluck gathering, where they had the opportunity to meet last year’s participants and exchange experiences.

🙏 A heartfelt thank you to PAG-ASA, Fedasil, and all participants for contributing to a meaningful day of learning, exchange and collaboration.

This study visit is part of IOM’s CONEX project, implemented in partnership with Fedasil and the Conex network, and financed by Fedasil.

According to most recent data, remittances exceeded USD 653.47 billion, making them one of the world’s most powerful fin...
16/06/2026

According to most recent data, remittances exceeded USD 653.47 billion, making them one of the world’s most powerful financial flows.

From supporting small businesses to helping families recover after crises, remittances strengthen local economies. Lower transfer costs, greater financial inclusion, and stronger diaspora engagement can multiply the impact of remittances worldwide (SDG 10).

10/06/2026

🎥 What happens when talent meets opportunity – by design?

Through IOM's Learning Mobility Scheme (LMS) between Belgium and Tunisia, Aya found more than an internship. She found an opportunity to grow, contribute and see her skills recognised beyond borders. At the same time, Close the Gap gained fresh perspectives, new energy, and talent that responds to real needs.

This testimony shows what a win-win partnership looks like. When mobility is ethical, structured, and driven by genuine demand, everyone wins: international students get inclusive pathways into employment, employers fill critical skills gaps.

🌍 Because talent is everywhere, opportunities should be too.

ℹ️ Want to learn more? Contact [email protected]

OIM Tunisie - IOM Tunisia - المنظمة الدولية للهجرة بتونس

---
🎥 Que se passe-t-il lorsque talent rencontre opportunité ?

Grâce au Learning Mobility Scheme (LMS) de l’OIM entre la Belgique et la Tunisie, Aya a trouvé bien plus qu’un stage. Elle a trouvé une opportunité de grandir, de contribuer et de voir ses compétences reconnues au-delà des frontières. Parallèlement, Close the Gap a bénéficié de nouvelles perspectives, d’une nouvelle énergie et d’un talent répondant à des besoins concrets.

Ce témoignage illustre à quoi ressemble un partenariat gagnant-gagnant. Lorsque la mobilité est éthique, structurée et fondée sur une demande réelle, tout le monde y gagne : les étudiant·e·s internationaux·ales accèdent à des parcours inclusifs vers l’emploi, et les employeurs comblent des pénuries de compétences.

🌍 Parce que le talent est partout, les opportunités devraient l’être aussi.

ℹ️ Envie d'en savoir plus ? Contactez-nous à [email protected]

📍À quoi ressemble l’accompagnement de terrain auprès des personnes migrantes en situation de vulnérabilité?En mai, des p...
09/06/2026

📍À quoi ressemble l’accompagnement de terrain auprès des personnes migrantes en situation de vulnérabilité?

En mai, des professionnel·le·s de terrain venus de toute la Belgique se sont réunis à Bruxelles pour une visite d’étude organisée par l’OIM dans le cadre du projet CONEX.

Cette visite a permis de découvrir concrètement comment les organisations accompagnent les personnes, en particulier celles en situation administrative précaire ou en dehors du réseau d’accueil formel.

💬 Les participant·e·s ont visité différents services et échangé directement avec des acteurs locaux. Ces échanges ont permis de mieux comprendre comment le travail d’outreach, l’accès aux services et le suivi se traduisent concrètement sur le terrain.

Du travail de rue et des équipes mobiles, aux permanences juridiques et points d’information, la diversité des dispositifs illustre comment les personnes migrantes sont:
🔹informées sur leurs droits et les procédures
🔹accompagnées dans l’accès à des services tels que les soins de santé ou l’hébergement
🔹orientées vers les structures adaptées à leur situation

Une attention particulière a été portée au rôle des initiatives portées par des personnes réfugiées ou issues de la migration, qui jouent un rôle clé de relais entre les services et les communautés.

🙏 Un grand merci à toutes les organisations qui ont contribué au programme: Umbrella Refugee Committee, SOS Jeunes-Quartier Libre AMO, Fedasil (Reach-Out & Infopoint Bordet), Vluchtelingenwerk Vlaanderen et le CPAS de la Ville de Bruxelles - OCMW van de Stad Brussel.

Et bien sûr, merci à l’ensemble des participant·e·s pour la richesse des échanges et le partage d’expériences.

Cette visite d’étude s’inscrit dans le cadre du projet CONEX de l’OIM, mis en œuvre en partenariat avec Fedasil et le réseau CONEX.

⚡ FLASH UPDATE ⚡1️⃣ For its 36th edition, the World Festival (Wereldfeest Leuven) will bring together communities, organ...
05/06/2026

⚡ FLASH UPDATE ⚡

1️⃣ For its 36th edition, the World Festival (Wereldfeest Leuven) will bring together communities, organizations, and citizens committed to multiculturalism, human rights, and global solidarity. The programme includes live music, food and information stands, and debates on migration, international relations, and human rights. Come to enjoy the world party and discover new artists!
📅 6 June 2026
📍 Paul Van Ostaijenpark, Heverlee (Leuven)
🎟️ Free entry (donations are welcome to support the non-profit organization)
🔗 More information: https://bit.ly/43S787O

2️⃣ Asian Persuasion vzw and Lucy's Antwerp vzw invite you to explore Tussen Oost en West, an exhibition featuring the works of Su-Yin Wang. Through art, dialogue, and cultural activities, the exhibition encourages visitors to reflect on themes of identity, migration, and belonging. The closing event on 13/06, held in Dutch, will feature a panel discussion on Asian diaspora experiences, a Chinese calligraphy workshop, a wellness session, and a live music performance by Joni Sheila.
📅 7–13 June 2026 (Closing event on 13 June)
📍 Lucy’s Antwerpen, Antwerp
🔗 More information: https://www.asian-persuasion.com/events/tussen-oost-en-west

3️⃣ Through personal stories and reflections, author, activist, and educator Don Moussa Pandzou explores themes of identity, migration, belonging, mental well-being, and social justice in his new book Child of the Four Seasons. Presented by De Centrale, the evening will feature a conversation with guest speakers, artistic interventions, and musical performances.
📅 10 June 2026
🕗 20:00 (Doors open at 19:30)
📍 De Centrale, Ghent
🔗 More information: https://www.decentrale.be/nl/agenda/literair/moussa-don-pandzou-kind-van-de-vier-seizoenen

4️⃣ Experience the world in one street during Borgerrio 2026. Organized by FMDO and local partners, this vibrant event showcases music, dance, cultural ceremonies, international cuisine, workshops, and interactive activities representing communities from across the globe. From Nigerian traditions with Igbo and Slavic ceremonies to South American dances and Syrian coffee rituals, Borgerrio celebrates intercultural dialogue and community spirit.
📅 20 June 2026
🕐 13:00–17:20
📍 Eliaertsstraat, Borgerhout (Antwerp)
🔗 More information: https://www.fmdo.be/borgerrio26/

5️⃣ Do you have an innovative project idea related to international solidarity? The Youth Incubator, launched by Enabel in partnership with the Colruyt Group Foundation and other partners, is looking for motivated young people in Belgium aged 18 to 30 who want to transform their ideas into impactful initiatives.
📅 Application deadline: 21 June 2026, 23:59
🔗 More information: https://beglobal.enabel.be/2026/05/27/project-call-youth-incubator/?lang=fr

🤝 Asbl Solidarité Est Afrique Solea a réuni des membres des communautés djiboutienne, somalienne et éthiopienne vivant d...
02/06/2026

🤝 Asbl Solidarité Est Afrique Solea a réuni des membres des communautés djiboutienne, somalienne et éthiopienne vivant dans des situations de vulnérabilité pour un après-midi d’information, d’échanges et de dialogue.

Cet événement a permis de créer un espace sûr et ouvert où les participant.e.s ont pu poser des questions, partager leurs expériences et discuter de questions touchant directement leur vie quotidienne. Les discussions ont porté sur des thèmes clés tels que les procédures d’asile en Belgique, les droits des migrants et les options d’aide disponibles pour ceux qui font face à des situations complexes, y compris le retour volontaire et la réintégration.

La participation active et les nombreuses questions soulevées tout au long de la session ont mis en évidence le besoin constant d’informations accessibles, claires et fiables. Elles ont également souligné l’incertitude à laquelle sont confrontées de nombreuses personnes lorsqu’elles tentent de comprendre les procédures administratives, leurs droits et les systèmes d’aide à leur disposition.

Au-delà des discussions informatives, cette rencontre a offert aux participant.e.s une occasion précieuse de nouer des liens, d’échanger leurs points de vue et de renforcer leur sentiment de communauté. L’après-midi s’est conclu par un moment de partage et de convivialité. 🌍

L’initiative de Solea a été sélectionnée dans le cadre du Fonds Incitatif CONEX 2026. Merci à l’organisation et à tous les participant.e.s pour leurs contributions significatives.

👉 Pour en savoir plus sur les activités et le travail remarquable de Solea, consultez leur site web : https://bit.ly/3Rzo14C

Le projet Conex de l’OIM est financé par Fedasil.

🌍 Introducing SHIELD - Safeguarding Unaccompanied and Separated Children in Irregular Stay!Launched on 21 April 2026 in ...
28/05/2026

🌍 Introducing SHIELD - Safeguarding Unaccompanied and Separated Children in Irregular Stay!

Launched on 21 April 2026 in Belgium and funded by the European Commission, SHIELD will run for 18 months to strengthen the protection of unaccompanied migrant children at risk of violence, disappearance, trafficking, and exploitation - often invisible in protection systems. 🛡️

🤝 Consortium partners: IOM Belgium and Luxembourg, Child Focus, Belgian Federal Police, SOS Jeunes Quartier Libre & Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles - Aide à la Jeunesse
🔗 Associated partner: Fedasil

SHIELD will:
✔️ Strengthen frontline workers through training and early intervention to prevent disappearances
✔️Improve law enforcement’s skills to detect violence, trafficking, and exploitation.
✔️Provide education, vocational opportunities, and frontline support to unaccompanied minors in irregular stay.
✔️Enhance collaboration and share best practices nationally and across Europe for integrated child protection.

Together, we're building safer pathways and stronger systems for every child.

ℹ Stay tuned to learn more!

25/05/2026

🎙️ New Episode Out Now - Diaspora Insights Podcast #19

On World Football Day, we celebrate the power of sports - a universal language that brings people together across cultures, backgrounds and generations. ⚽ 🌍

For this episode, we welcome back Younes El Haddaji, founder of the Red Side Academy and recent winner of the Flemish Sports Jewel for the "Warmest Sport Initiative".

Three years after his first appearance on our podcast, Younes returns to reflect on the remarkable growth of the Red Side Academy. Today, the organization reaches more than 400 young people every week, using football as a tool to break down social barriers, strengthen communities, and create new opportunities for young people from migrant and diaspora backgrounds in Belgium.

In this episode, we explore the power of sport to foster inclusion, connection, and belonging - both on and off the pitch.

🎥 Discover the full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/475M5F7EdjU

⚡ FLASH UPDATE ⚡1️⃣ Are you between 15 and 30 years old and ready to stand up for gender equality? The Humanitarian Welf...
22/05/2026

⚡ FLASH UPDATE ⚡

1️⃣ Are you between 15 and 30 years old and ready to stand up for gender equality? The Humanitarian Welfare Association HWA is looking for passionate young people who want to make a real impact in their communities. Gain valuable experience through trainings, workshops, mentorship, community engagement, and receive a volunteer allowance while making a real impact.
ℹ️ More info: https://bit.ly/49XwWTt

2️⃣ The Red Star Line Museum and FMDO vzw invite you to an inspiring evening dedicated to migration stories from the first generation of Nigerian migrants in Belgium, with a special focus on the Igbo community in Antwerp. The evening will feature personal testimonies, followed by opportunities for dialogue, reflection, and exchange over drinks and snacks. Please note that the event will be held in Dutch.
📅 6 June 2026 I 19:00-23:00 CET
📍 Montevideostraat 3, 2000 Antwerp
ℹ️ More info & tickets: https://www.facebook.com/events/952037767598535?active_tab=about

3️⃣ Join WBLI for a curated evening bringing together Ghanaian women and members of the wider African diaspora who are shaping business, leadership, and the creative industries. This intimate gathering is designed to spark meaningful dialogue, amplify voices, and foster powerful connections across sectors and generations. Expect insightful conversations, a dynamic panel discussion, and a vibrant networking reception
📅 13 June 2026 | 16:00–20:00 CET
📍 Ghana Embassy Chancery, Brussels (Avenue de Tervuren 391, 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre)
ℹ️ More info & registration: https://womeninbusiness.netlify.app/

4️⃣ During Kortrijk Sinksen, the KRAC World Market transforms Groeningepark into a vibrant celebration of diversity, music, and connection. Discover food stands featuring dishes from around the world, enjoy colourful parades and energetic concerts, and experience a warm atmosphere filled with music, encounters, and cultural exchange in the heart of Kortrijk.
📅 24 & 25 May 2026 , From 13:00 CET
📍 Groeningepark, Kortrijk
🔗 Check the full programme: https://www.fmdo.be/krac26/

5️⃣ Hybrid Studios presents The Rift Between Us by Rita Afonso at 30CC Leuven, a powerful documentary exploring love, identity, belonging, misogynoir, colorism, and self-image within Sub-Saharan communities. Get an exclusive first glimp of the documentary through its trailer. The evening also features a live discussion with the filmmaker and guests including Marie-Fidèle Dusingize, Nozizwe Dube, Sesa, and Iyanuoluwa.
📅 28 May 2026
📍 30CC/Wagehuys, Leuven (Brusselsestraat 63, 3000 Leuven)
ℹ️ More info and tickets: https://bit.ly/3RVJ3KA

Adres

40 Rue Montoyerstraat
Brussels
1000

Openingstijden

Maandag 09:00 - 17:30
Dinsdag 09:00 - 17:30
Woensdag 09:00 - 17:30
Donderdag 09:00 - 17:30
Vrijdag 09:00 - 17:30

Telefoon

+32 2 287 70 00

Meldingen

Wees de eerste die het weet en laat ons u een e-mail sturen wanneer IOM Belgium and Luxembourg nieuws en promoties plaatst. Uw e-mailadres wordt niet voor andere doeleinden gebruikt en u kunt zich op elk gewenst moment afmelden.

Contact De Organisatie

Stuur een bericht naar IOM Belgium and Luxembourg:

Delen