Egypt: ICRC and IOM Collaborate to Support Families Facing Separation

Egypt is a transit point for individuals fleeing conflict, many of whom lose contact with their families during their journey. This agreement will allow both organizations to exchange knowledge and expertise, strengthening their ability to support migrant and refugee communities in Egypt by reconnecting with loved ones they’ve lost contact with. 

“Family separation is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure. The loss of contact and uncertainty about a loved one's fate can cause immense suffering. I am truly grateful that this agreement will help us ease some of this pain and bring joy to families,” Mr. Alfonso Verdu Perez, Head of the ICRC delegation in Egypt said during a signing ceremony at IOM Egypt office. 

“This agreement is more than a procedural mechanism; it is a lifeline. It is a testament to what can be achieved when humanitarian actors come together in the spirit of trust, neutrality, and shared purpose.”  said Mr. Carlos Oliver Cruz, Chief of Mission of IOM Egypt, during the signing ceremony. 

As part of its protection mandate, the ICRC works to prevent family separations, search for the missing, and reunite loved ones. Through its Cairo office, the ICRC helps trace, restore contact, and reunite families separated by armed conflict, violence, disasters, or migration. 

IOM is committed to the principle that humane and orderly migration benefits migrants and society. The organization collaborates with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to improve the resilience of people on the move, particularly those in situations of vulnerability and protection. 

For more information, please contact:

ICRC : Nesma Nowar (nnowar@icrc.org)

IOM : Salma Okasha (sokasha@iom.int)