2024 marks a historic year for the UNV and IOM partnership in Colombia, as the number of available volunteer opportunities nationwide to join IOM teams has multiplied.
In Colombia, there are over 600 UN Volunteers supporting peace and providing humanitarian assistance. UN Volunteers assigned with IOM are now 15 percent of the total UNVs in the country.
"The involvement of volunteers in IOM's operation is very important, as this exercise has a significant impact that spreads, inspires others and strengthens bonds of solidarity and resilience. Collaboration between the two organizations allows us to identify suitable profiles and respond efficiently to meet the needs of the communities that need it most," highlights Fernando Medina, IOM Chief of Mission in Colombia.
Passion and diversity are footprints of UN Volunteers serving within IOM. With ages ranging from 24 to 53 years old, these volunteers serve in a variety of roles, including operational assistance and field support, data processing, communications, migration, and human trafficking specialization, among other professional fields.
60% are women, serving under the categories of Specialist, Expert, and Youth. They are deployed in 7 cities across the country, including Bogotá, Barranquilla, Medellín, Cucuta, Cali, and Florencia.
Valentina Muñoz, a United Nations Volunteer for a year now, serves as a communications specialist. She embodies the essence of this experience in her personal and professional growth.
"My time as a volunteer at IOM has led me to discover various corners of the country and wonderful communities," shares Valentina. "One of the most enriching experiences was participating in 'Co-creating Peace,' a project that worked with young leaders from several municipalities in Cauca. It was an especially rewarding moment. I could collaborate with women whom I admire, recognize their struggles and challenges, and their tireless efforts to transform a region marked by conflict."
Manuel Pinzón, a professional in policies and international relations, began his assignment as a UN Volunteer in March. He leads a team in Cucuta for the migrant resettlement program. "My greatest motivation to be part of the IOM team is to be able to contribute in the border area, providing humane treatment to the people who need us the most," expresses Manuel.
During his recent official mission to Colombia on March 13, 2024, the UNV Executive Coordinator, Toily Kurbanov, met with the IOM Colombia team. Kurbanov highlighted the deep relationship between IOM and United Nations Volunteers in the country:
'IOM loves UNV, that's why we love IOM. We are proud of our alliance, and at UNV, we will ensure that it works, and that UN Volunteers are empowered to implement the important mandate that IOM has in Colombia.' he affirmed.