IOM’s Displacement Tracking Matrix Receives Top Recognition for Internal Displacement Data

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has announced the recognition of its Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) as a leading provider of national-level data on internal displacement. This acknowledgment underscores the critical role DTM plays in informing humanitarian efforts worldwide and will ensure that core data on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) is systematically included in humanitarian needs and response plans.

At the heart of the focused data components of the Management Response is the goal to improve coordination and operational data management, enhancing the humanitarian response to internal displacement both globally and locally. The plan specifically calls on IOM, through DTM, to bolster services for gathering and analyzing population-level data of internally displaced persons at the country level. This initiative is intended to predictably and regularly supply the humanitarian community with real-time IDP caseload and flow data.

The IOM statement further emphasizes that internally displaced population data, along with broader system-wide data-gathering efforts, should be systematically woven into the Common Services sections of Humanitarian Needs and Response Plans (HNRPS). “The world is grappling with complex and multifaceted challenges including the intersections of conflict, environmental hazards, and socio-economic shocks,” said Ugochi Daniels, IOM Deputy Director General of Operations. “This recognition highlights the importance of investing in high-quality, comparable and interoperable data to ensure an effective humanitarian response.”

With more than 75 million people currently displaced within their own countries, data on internal displacement is deemed more crucial. It provides critical insights for planning, response, and developing sustainable solutions for those affected. As part of its comprehensive contributions toward executing the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) Management Response, IOM plans to strengthen DTM’s field operations further.

This enhancement will involve mobilizing necessary resources and building partnerships to improve data collection in the world’s most challenging displacement contexts. It will also involve continuing to integrate IDP data across multi-sector needs assessments, better informing joint analysis efforts, and improving data quality and relevance. This work is expected to be carried out closely with national authorities and various data entities across the system.

Since its establishment 20 years ago, DTM has played a pivotal role in illuminating the needs, mobility patterns, and vulnerabilities of people on the move, operating actively in 100 countries. It collects and analyzes data that enables decision-makers and aid responders to provide more context-specific assistance efficiently.

The IOM stands ready to scale up DTM operations and services, aiming to deliver real-time, population-level data on internally displaced people. This is seen as crucial in helping the humanitarian community to respond swiftly and effectively to IDP needs.

Note to the editor: The IASC Management Response is a result of a consultative process involving all interested IASC members, the United Nations Development Coordination Office, and the Office of the Special Adviser on Solutions to Internal Displacement.