IOM opens global supply chain centre in Thessaloniki

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has opened its new Global Supply Chain Centre in Thessaloniki, Greece. This facility is intended to enhance the IOM’s ability to deliver humanitarian aid more quickly and efficiently to communities affected by crises worldwide, as stated by the organization. The inauguration took place during a ceremonial event attended by government representatives.

Strategic location and logistics expertise

According to the IOM, the new center is located in a strategically important site that connects Europe, the Balkans, and the Middle East. Thessaloniki is thus recognized not only as a historical hub for trade and peoples but also positioned as an international logistics center, as reported by Minister of Economy and Finance Kyriakos Pierrakakis. The Global Supply Chain Centre is set to function as a central hub for humanitarian supply chains. It aims to optimize the procurement, storage, and distribution of aid supplies through the use of technology and data-driven planning. Additionally, sustainable logistics practices are emphasized to enhance the efficiency of aid deliveries.

With this step, the IOM aims to improve responsiveness to humanitarian crises. „Given the steadily growing humanitarian needs, this center will help the IOM deliver life-saving assistance more quickly, efficiently, and with greater transparency,“ said SungAh Lee, Deputy Director General of the IOM for Management and Reform.

www.iom.int