ABSTRACT
This chapter explores how IOM has expanded in the humanitarian sphere and the implications of this expansion. In particular, it examines how conceptions of IOM’s humanitarian roles and commitments, and its place in the international system, have developed inside and outside the organization. The chapter suggests that IOM’s evolution in the humanitarian field is the result of a two-pronged process. First, IOM has capitalized on institutional characteristics including its “permissive” Constitution, and its reputation for flexibility, efficiency, and logistical proficiency, to entrepreneurially expand the range of work that it undertakes during and after humanitarian emergencies. It has prospered as a jack of all trades, but has avoided being master of none by simultaneously developing distinctive niches which have provided footholds for further growth. Second, recognizing that professed fidelity to humanitarian principles and human rights norms is, increasingly, a sin qua non for acceptance as a legitimate actor in the field, IOM has attempted to recast itself as an organization that is explicitly committed to these standards and acts in support of them, notwithstanding its lack of a formal protection mandate. The chapter considers the significance of IOM’s efforts to articulate commitments to humanitarian principles and human rights norms in internal policies, integrate “rights-talk” into its institutional discourse, and position itself as a flagbearer for particular groups such as “migrants in crisis.”
