Niamey - The International Organization for Migration (IOM) expresses regret for the altercation that occurred between a security guard from an external company that provides security for its premises and a journalist near its main office in Niamey.

Following security issues in front of the IOM office, a security perimeter was set near the building. A journalist who was present to cover events in front of IOM’ office crossed the perimeter. This led to a verbal altercation with one of the security guards.

Following the incident, IOM entered into a dialogue with the journalist and the National Media House (Maison de la Presse) to express regret about the situation.

IOM deplores this event, particularly as it promotes freedom of expression and access to information on a daily basis, and will ensure that appropriate action is taken.

The media plays a fundamental role in the public debate and perception of migration and migrants. Since 2020, IOM has been organizing training workshops with national and local media to equip them and promote more balanced and inclusive coverage of migration. The most recent one, held in June 2022, brought together 25 journalists from Nigerien media outlets for a workshop on media coverage of migration organized by IOM in collaboration with the Maison de la Presse du Niger and the Association Carta di Roma.

For more information, please contact Aïssatou Sy, Public Information Officer; aisy@iom.int