IIMAD was formed during a period of tough challenges to global mobility and displacement. It is the culmination of years of hard work, rigorous training, and multi-disciplinary research in migration studies by exemplary scholars. It is my dream that IIMAD can set the stage for the next generation of scholars, policymakers and administrators to rise to the demands of a future of high mobility and the spirit of humanitarianism.
Who we are
A research home for migration, ageing, climate change & sustainable development
The International Institute of Migration and Development (IIMAD) is an independent, interdisciplinary research institute established in 2019 to advance knowledge on migration, population ageing, climate change and sustainable development. Our work explores how these interconnected forces shape societies, economies and public policy in an increasingly complex world.
At IIMAD, we bring together researchers from diverse disciplines, including demography, economics, sociology, public policy, environmental studies and development research. This interdisciplinary approach enables us to generate comprehensive evidence that reflects the realities of rapidly changing populations and environments.
Our research extends beyond academic inquiry. Through partnerships with governments, international organisations, universities and civil society, we transform research into practical knowledge that informs policymaking, strengthens institutions and supports inclusive and sustainable development.
Alongside research, IIMAD is committed to building the next generation of scholars and practitioners. Through training programmes, publications, collaborative networks and knowledge-sharing initiatives, we foster a vibrant research community dedicated to addressing the defining demographic, environmental and development challenges of the twenty-first century.
Understanding change. Empowering policy. Improving lives.
The conviction that has guided IIMAD since its founding
01
Grounded in evidence
We believe that meaningful policy begins with rigorous evidence. Our work combines large-scale surveys, quantitative analysis, qualitative research, administrative data and field-based studies to generate reliable insights that reflect the lived realities of people and communities.
02
Capacity building of young scholars
Advancing research requires investing in people. Through training programmes, internships, conferences, collaborative networks and open knowledge-sharing, we strengthen research capacity and foster a diverse community of scholars and practitioners committed to addressing emerging global challenges.
03
Global south perspectives
Much of the world’s migration, demographic change and climate vulnerability is concentrated in the Global South. We deliver research led by Global South scholars, drawing on local knowledge, empirical evidence and lived experiences to generate solutions that are relevant, equitable and globally significant.
04
Interdisciplinary by design
The challenges of the twenty-first century do not exist in isolation. Climate change influences migration. Population ageing transforms labour markets. Migration reshapes care systems. Development policies affect resilience. At IIMAD, we believe these issues must be studied together. Our researchers work across disciplines to generate evidence that reflects the complexity of real-world challenges
Three intersecting themes
Pillar 01
Migration Studies
Pillar 02
Population Ageing
Pillar 03
Climate Change
Our leaders
IIMAD was founded with the vision to be a prominent voice and catalyst in improving the lives of migrants and their families all over the world. We are committed to our mission of providing the highest-quality data and analyses in migration studies, and pledge to grow with a philosophy founded in hard work, knowledge, experience, migrant-centrism and sustainability. Our dream is to become an inclusive and diverse community of migration practitioners that can stimulate safe, orderly, and productive migration both regionally and globally, and assist governments in building mobile regimes for the 21st century.
Collaborate with IIMAD
Partner with our research network, contribute to our publications, or invite us to your next convening.