TBB and IOM Launch Pioneering Initiative to Expand Labour Mobility Pathways from Latin America to Canada and Other Countries of Destination
[Panama, 26 February 2025 ] — Talent Beyond Boundaries (TBB) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) have launched a multi-country initiative aimed at facilitating access to labour mobility pathways for migrants, refugees and other displaced individuals in Latin America and the Caribbean.
The two-year “Building Ecosystem Capacity to Scale Labour Mobility” project is funded by the Government of Canada through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The initiative aims to strengthen labour mobility frameworks, providing safe and regular migration opportunities that enhance skills and support economic development in destination countries.
The project is also designed to build the skills of migrants and refugees so that they are able to access labour pathways, reducing their reliance on smugglers and combating exploitation.
“At TBB, we are dedicated to strengthening the ecosystem of organizations that support skilled refugees and displaced individuals. Our goal is to equip these candidates to unlock their potential and access meaningful work opportunities,” said Sorcha O’Callaghan, CEO of Talent Beyond Boundaries. “This project marks a significant step toward systemic change in Latin America and the Caribbean, enabling skilled individuals to transform their lives while contributing to global economies.”
“Labour mobility pathways are a win-win solution for addressing labour market needs at all skill levels and tapping into new talent while safeguarding the protection of migrants and refugees. This partnership will undoubtedly help us to implement positive change in the lives of thousands in the region,” said Diego Beltrand, IOM’s Special Envoy for the regional response to the outflows of Migrants and Refugees from Venezuela and other Nationalities.
Through the $4 million CAD project, TBB will aim to support 1,500 candidates by enhancing their employability and integration outcomes through training in English, soft skills, interview preparation, and/or sector-specific expertise. IOM will also share information on available labour mobility pathways with potential candidates. Additionally, TBB and IOM will strengthen local organizations across Latin America and the Caribbean, including refugee-led groups, by providing training, coaching, and technical resources to effectively implement labour mobility solutions.
TBB and IOM will document lessons learned throughout the project and share these insights with governments across the region to encourage the development of additional labour mobility pathways. Findings will also be communicated to the Global Task Force on Refugee Labour Mobility, fostering international dialogue and collaboration.
The IRCC-funded project is designed as a replicable model for governments, non-profit organizations, and employers, demonstrating how complementary labor mobility pathways can significantly transform lives while strengthening economies worldwide.
For more information, please contact:
media@talentbeyondboundaries.org
IOM, Gema Cortes, marcortes@iom.int