This publication outlines a new approach to mainstreaming migration into local development plans to harness the role of local authorities as key actors in migration and development initiatives. 

The complex reciprocal nature of the migration and development nexus can significantly influence development policies at the local level, where the impact of migration is strongly felt. In fact, local authorities are at the frontline of migration governance, addressing the most urgent needs and challenges of their foreign population, but also responding to the opportunities brought by migration.

That is why it is crucial to integrate migration considerations in local policymaking across all sectors of governance and involving all relevant stakeholders. Building on IOM’s longstanding institutional experience on mainstreaming migration, the initiative “Local Authorities Network for Migration and Development” was a first attempt at overcoming siloed approaches to migration policies at the local level. 

This publication builds on the learnings and insights gathered through the analysis of this pilot project. It identifies promising practices and lessons learned to allow IOM, policymakers and practitioners to design and implement improved local mainstreaming migration mechanisms.