IOM is providing its technical expertise to the Migration and
Development Network, as the civil society group seeks to focus and
strengthen its initiatives.

The Migration and Development Network came together to raise
awareness, provide objective information and training in order to
generate public policies on migration-related concerns affecting
all Peruvians.

The Network, composed of international organizations, NGOs,
academia and researchers, amongst others, offers an opportunity for
its members to share ideas and increase coordination.

"This new approach will avoid duplication of the work being done
by many organizations, and no doubt will help shape urgent answers
to the migration challenges Peru faces," said Oscar Sandoval, IOM
project officer in Peru.

In the last two decades, migration has become an integral part
of Peruvian life.  It is estimated that more than three
million Peruvians are living abroad.  Remittances from these
migrants to the families back home reached USD 2.9 billion in
2008.

In Peru, IOM provides assistance to returning vulnerable
migrants; carries out research which provides information and data
for the government and civil society to design public policy;
provides technical support and training to government entities; and
is a member of migration-related groups focusing on human rights,
health, and employment, amongst others.

"The global financial crisis has left many migrants
unemployed.  These migrants may decide they want to return
home and start new lives. Peru needs to be ready for this so that
these returns can be successful," explained Aída
Rodríguez, Head of the Trade Union Institute for Cooperation
and Development, and a member of the Network.

For more information please contact:

Juan Pablo Casapia

IOM Lima

Tel: Tel: +511.221.7698 / 221-7209

E-mail: "mailto:jcasapia@iom.int">jcasapia@iom.int