Comprehensive information and orientation programmes: A gender-responsive approach for supporting the empowerment of women on the move

Women migrant workers face distinct challenges and risks throughout the labour migration cycle, often rooted in gender inequality and discriminatory norms. When equipped with accurate, accessible, and gender-sensitive information, they are better able to make informed decisions, claim their rights, and contribute fully to their communities and economies. 

This guide provides practical recommendations for making International Organization for Migration’s (IOM) Comprehensive Information and Orientation Programmes (CIOPs) more gender-responsive across all stages of the migration process—from pre-employment to pre-departure, post-arrival, and pre-return. Developed by IOM and UN Women, it outlines how to assess and address the different information needs of women migrant workers, how to deliver trainings in inclusive and empowering ways, and how to engage stakeholders in supporting gender equality. It also features checklists and tools to help programme managers, trainers, and policymakers integrate gender considerations into every step of the CIOP process. 

By centring the experiences and priorities of women migrant workers, the guide seeks to strengthen their empowerment and ensure they can access decent work, legal protections, and services at all stages of migration. It is a practical tool for governments, civil society, recruitment agencies, and other actors involved in the design and implementation of labour migration programmes.