Airbnb.org joins the International Organization for Migration
Airbnb.org and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), the United Nations agency for migration, announced their collaboration to guide those fleeing Ukraine to free short-term stays in Poland, Moldova, Romania, Hungary and Slovakia.
More than 2 million people have been displaced to neighboring countries due to the conflict in Ukraine. Last week, Airbnb.org committed to providing free temporary housing for up to 100,000 refugees from Ukraine, and since then, more than 15,000 people worldwide have registered through Airbnb.org to make their homes available to refugees. for free or at a lower cost.
IOM provides vital support to migrants around the world, providing emergency responses and advice on migration policy and practices. Through this partnership with Airbnb.org, IOM will help provide temporary accommodation over the coming weeks and months to people who have fled Ukraine.
These stays are free and funded by Airbnb, Inc., donations to the Airbnb.org Refugee Fund, and the generosity of hosts through Airbnb.org. Airbnb waives all commissions on these stays.
IOM is on the ground, mobilizing teams and expanding capacity in Ukraine and neighboring countries to respond to the growing humanitarian needs of Ukrainians who have been forced to flee the country, internally displaced persons and stranded third-country nationals. The IOM’s priority is the safety and protection of those fleeing the country, as well as helping them to obtain assistance. The IOM examines and assesses potential vulnerabilities and risks, including human trafficking, child protection, mental health and the arrival of the most vulnerable people with special needs, including the elderly, injured or sick.
As of March 4, 2022, citizens of 138 countries have crossed borders into neighboring states. Many left their country with only the clothes they were wearing and some valuables. Finding safety and refuge in an unfamiliar place is proving daunting for many.
IOM, Airbnb and Airbnb.org are experienced in collaborating to support the refugee community around the world and have been working together since 2019 to provide accommodation for Syrian and Afghan refugees in Romania.
