Vienna Migration Conference 2025

About VMC2025

The Vienna Migration Conference (VMC) marked its 10th anniversary as a premier platform for dialogue and exchange on migration. Held on 21-22 October, the conference brought together senior decision-makers, practitioners and thought-leaders at a moment of profound global change.

This year’s discussions took place against the backdrop of shifting international dynamics, economic realignments, labour market pressures and protracted conflicts that continue to shape migration patterns and policies.

Sessions addressed progress and challenges in implementing the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, the role of migration partnerships, global efforts to attract skills and talent, return and reintegration in diverse contexts – including post-conflict recovery – and the use of forecasting and data in migration governance.

The conference was again livestreamed, connecting participants around the world to these high-level discussions and exchanges. For an overview of the sessions and discussions that took place at this year’s conference, please consult the VMC2025 programme.

This year’s conference also marked a moment of transition for ICMPD. Director General Michael Spindelegger presided over his final Vienna Migration Conference, introducing Director General-elect Susanne Raab, who will assume office in January 2026.

Conference updates are shared via the ICMPD Policy & Research LinkedIn page, as well as via the ICMPD main channels on LinkedIn, BlueSky, Facebook and X. We encourage you to join the conversation online by using the hashtag #ViennaMigrationConference