At IOM diversity is one of the strengths that enables us to better rise up to the complex challenges of migration. We have implemented a number of measures to increase gender equality and the empowerment of women, but it is important to never rest on our laurels. With over 40% of the world’s 165 million international migrants being women, IOM recognises that our objective of safe, orderly, and regular migration can only be met if gender equality is taken into account across all our policies, programmes and initiatives. Gender is central to the causes and consequences of migration, and a person’s sex, gender, gender identity and sexual orientation shape every stage of the migration experience, from the reasons for migration and particular risks and vulnerabilities. Lack of access to livelihood opportunities can disproportionately impact women and create an impetus for migration as well as contribute to poor socio-economic outcomes at destination countries.