COVID-19 Frontlines: IOM Mobile Team stands ready to support migrants stranded in Montenegro

During COVID-19 pandemic, restriction measures enforced in the country certainly affected migrant population in Montenegro, specifically those accommodated at the Centres in Spuz and Konik. Throughout the whole period, IOM Mobile Team did not cease its operations in the field and the seven-member Team has been constantly providing support to migrants in Montenegro, who remain amongst the most vulnerable categories.

Be it a psycho-social support, simple grocery shopping or just a chat with migrants and provision of necessary information, IOM Team constantly worked for the benefit and well-being of migrants. In the light of the COVID 19 situation, IOM Mobile Team also ensured provision of related information to migrants on preventive measures and how to keep safe during COVID-19, overcoming language barriers.

We were very lucky because migrants in our Centres understood the gravity of the situation and together we remained firm to endure against the pandemic.

Dijana Ostojić, IOM social worker

A substantial part of IOM operations in the field is the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme, which enables return of migrants to their countries of origin. Mustafa, an Iraqi migrant, is currently under the AVRR procedure and until the restriction of movement measures have been lifted and airports opened, IOM Mobile Team helps Mustafa to contact his family and regularly informs him about the situation in his country of origin.

IOM Team is always around and available to help. It is very much appreciated in these challenging circumstances.” Meantime, IOM Mobile Team helps Mustafa in terms of transportation, purchase of groceries and also translation whenever necessary.

Mustafa, migrant FROM Iraq

Another experience was shared by a Cuban family, who explained that IOM Mobile Team helped them overcome the restrictive measures and isolation to a considerable extent. Being unable to leave the Reception Centre and do their errands, their child facing difficulties in following school classes online due to language barrier, made them experience some sort of psychological strain which they successfully managed to overcome thanks to IOM Team. IOM social worker was also providing support with homework and other school tasks for their child.

IOM support was of great help in overcoming this difficult period. Especially support provided for my child with schooling, since me and my husband face language barrier and are unable to help him follow his classes.

Yakelin, woman from Cuba

I have no doubt that this difficult situation caused by COVID-19 pandemic, would be overcome. My team and I work closely with migrants every day and thanks to the relationship of trust we built, we managed to endure and stay safe.

Muhamed Masarani, IOM Team leader

Regardless of the development of situation and challenges encountered on the way, IOM Team remains ready to provide support to migrants.

It is this relationship of trust and solidarity that remains the most valuable part of IOM’s work.