The Pohnpei State Legislature has formally recognized the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for its deep and lasting contributions to disaster preparedness and response across the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). Through a resolution passed on 3 June 2025, lawmakers commended IOM's commitment to protecting lives, reducing disaster risks, and reaching communities often left behind.
"No one should be left behind because of where they live or how hard they are to reach," said Salvatore Sortino, IOM Micronesia Chief of Mission, during the ceremony with Speaker of the Legislature, Honourable Marvin T. Yamaguchi. "This recognition reflects years of close collaboration between IOM, authorities, and the people of Pohnpei and FSM at large. We remain committed to standing with communities as they recover, rebuild, and adapt to growing climate challenges."
For over 15 years, IOM has worked across the North Pacific to prepare for and respond to emergencies, while promoting safe and inclusive migration. Its work has helped communities adapt to increasingly frequent extreme weather events and rising climate threats, with a focus on those most at risk.
The resolution also acknowledges IOM's post-disaster recovery support following Typhoons Maysak, Jelawat, and Wutip, including the reconstruction of hundreds of homes and public facilities and the restoration of farmlands. It highlights IOM's efforts to mobilize and train local communities, building long-term resilience through a "build back better" approach.
In addition, lawmakers commended IOM's role in responding to the 2023 drought, which severely affected low-lying islands across FSM, the Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI), and the Republic of Palau. IOM reached more than 7,000 people with clean water and hygiene supplies across ten outer islands.
Since launching operations in the region in 2009, IOM has supported the development of early warning systems, evacuation plans, community-based disaster risk reduction and emergency shelter programming. Its work is guided by a rights-based approach that ensures assistance is inclusive, timely, and locally driven.
Many of the islands supported by IOM are geographically isolated and face unique logistical challenges during emergencies. In these places, IOM has been a critical partner in ensuring that disaster response is coordinated, equitable, and responsive to the needs of each community.
Community engagement has been central to IOM's approach. Women, youth, traditional leaders and persons with disabilities have helped shape preparedness efforts to ensure they reflect diverse realities and local knowledge. These voices have strengthened disaster governance and ensured that solutions are sustainable and relevant.
The resolution from the Pohnpei State Legislature comes at a pivotal time. Climate change is intensifying the risks facing Pacific Island nations, making coordinated preparedness and adaptation more urgent than ever. IOM's work continues to evolve in response to these realities, with an emphasis on strengthening local capacities and reinforcing inclusive disaster management systems. These efforts help ensure that populations can move safely when needed, and that those who stay are not left without support.
