New centre boosts IOM’s humanitarian assistance

The United Nation agency, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) inaugurated its new Global Supply Chain Centre in Thessaloniki, Greece, marking a major milestone in strengthening the organization’s ability to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance more rapidly and efficiently to communities affected by crises worldwide.

“Today’s inauguration marks an important milestone not only for Thessaloniki, but for Greece as a whole,” said Minister of National Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis. “Building on its historic role as a crossroads of continents, peoples and trade, Thessaloniki is now strengthening its position as an international logistics hub, creating new opportunities for investment, employment and innovation.”

Located at the crossroads of Europe, the Balkans and the Middle East, the centre combines Thessaloniki’s strategic location with strong transport links and logistics expertise. It will serve as a global hub for humanitarian supply chain operations, supporting the procurement, storage and distribution of essential relief supplies through innovative technologies, data-driven planning and sustainable logistics practices.

“The opening of this centre is a significant investment in the future of humanitarian response,” said SungAh Lee, IOM Deputy Director General for Management and Reform. “As humanitarian needs continue to grow, this centre will help IOM deliver life-saving assistance faster, more efficiently and with greater accountability.”

The inauguration brought together senior government officials and representatives from international organizations, the private sector, academia and civil society. The centre will build on these partnerships to develop and scale innovative approaches that strengthen humanitarian logistics and improve aid delivery worldwide.

“Greece firmly believes that the complex challenges of our time can only be addressed through international cooperation and effective partnerships,” said Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Yannis Loverdos. “IOM stands at the forefront of this effort, and Greece is proud to support its mission.”

The inauguration builds on the Memorandum of Understanding signed between IOM and the Government of Greece in July 2025, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing humanitarian preparedness, operational excellence and sustainable development through stronger international cooperation.

“Humanitarian crises, climate-related disasters and forced displacement require faster responses, stronger partnerships and smarter logistics,” said Mayor of Thessaloniki Stelios Angeloudis. “No country and no organization can face these challenges alone. Success depends on cooperation. It depends on trust. And it depends on cities like Thessaloniki, which can offer stability, connectivity and the ability to bring people together.” 

As humanitarian needs continue to evolve, the Thessaloniki Global Supply Chain Centre will become a cornerstone of IOM’s global humanitarian operations, enabling faster, smarter and more sustainable delivery of life-saving assistance to people affected by crises around the world.