Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The latest World Migration Report 2026 by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) highlights the importance of safe and regular migration pathways in shaping economies and societies worldwide. The report states that restricting legal migration channels may increase risks for migrants, raise state costs, and reduce migration's broader benefits.
By mid-2024, there were approximately 304 million international migrants, about 3.7 percent of the global population. The number of migrant workers grew by more than 30 million between 2013 and 2022. Migrants contribute as workers, entrepreneurs, consumers, and bring skills, innovation, and international connections.
Remittances remain significant and are projected to reach $905 billion in 2024, including $685 billion sent to low- and middle-income countries. This amount exceeds combined totals for official development assistance and foreign direct investment. IOM leadership noted that migration drives jobs, economic growth, stability, and social cohesion, while emphasizing regional and global cooperation for safer migration outcomes.
Although the benefits are clear, access to migration opportunities is uneven. High-income countries offer more pathways compared to lower-income settings. Migration patterns also vary by region, showing the complexity of global migration.
Meanwhile, global displacement reached record levels by the end of 2024, with over 120 million displaced persons, including refugees, asylum seekers, and internally displaced individuals. Of these, 83.4 million were displaced internally, the highest number ever recorded. The report cites multiple causes, such as conflict, environmental factors, and structural vulnerabilities, and stresses the need to combine humanitarian aid with long-term development approaches.