Consultant for Regional Study on Smuggling of Migrants in the Middle East & North Africa

This consultancy, led by IOM’s Regional Data Hub in MENA, focuses on addressing gaps in understanding migrant smuggling by analyzing fragmented and inconsistent national data systems and their limited ability to capture the full dynamics of smuggling. The study will map and compare definitions, indicators, and institutional arrangements across countries, while also assessing how data on regular migration pathways is collected, given its link to smuggling patterns. Through a multi-country analytical approach, it will identify key gaps, interoperability challenges, and coordination needs, integrating gender and protection considerations. Delivered in three phases (inception, analytical report, and final report with policy brief), the assignment aims to produce practical recommendations to strengthen data governance, enhance regional cooperation, and support more evidence-based, protection-sensitive responses to migrant smuggling.