News
The Deputy Minister of Social Affairs and Labor, Saleh Mahmoud Hassan, met with representatives of the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to discuss joint coordination regarding the issue of irregular migrants to Yemen. The discussions also addressed possible solutions to combat smuggling networks and curb human trafficking.
Deputy Minister Saleh emphasized that the Houthi terrorist militias exploit large numbers of irregular migrants for their ongoing military activities. He stressed the need to hold a regional conference on irregular migration, given Yemen’s role as a major transit country for migrants. He also pointed out that authorities in Aden have uncovered gangs involved in human trafficking and the exploitation of migrants in ways that threaten security and social stability.
During the meeting, held at the ministry’s headquarters in Aden, Deputy Minister Saleh discussed with IOM officials—including Ivan, a governance specialist; Mohammed Hatoum, a protection officer; and Kamal Qahtan, a coordination and communication officer—the possibility of supporting response and protection centers, particularly for vulnerable children. He also mentioned that the ministry has completed the strategic framework for social protection in Yemen (2025–2030).
The discussions also covered support for the Coast Guard forces securing the coastal strip from Bab al-Mandab to Al-Mahra, as well as the proposed budget for this support.
For their part, IOM officials expressed their pleasure in cooperating with the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, affirming their commitment to joint coordination on the discussed proposals. They also thanked the ministry’s leadership for facilitating the organization's work in Aden.
The meeting was attended by Ihab Babresh, Director General of Social Defense