David Arnold Assumes Role as IOM Chief of Mission in Papua New Guinea

Mr David Arnold formally presented his credentials to Hon. Justin Tkatchenko, CBE, BEM, OL, MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs, officially commencing his duties as Chief of Mission for the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Papua New Guinea on February 13, 2025. He succeeds Mr Serhan Aktoprak, whose tenure ended in September 2024.

A national of the United Kingdom, Mr Arnold brings extensive experience in migration issues. He has managed large, multi-sectoral programs supporting humanitarian action, stabilization, and peacebuilding, advancing durable solutions and sustainable development. Most recently, he served with IOM in Iraq, leading the mission’s peacebuilding and stabilization portfolio. Prior to Iraq, he worked at IOM’s Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), supporting emergency and post-crisis responses. Mr Arnold has also held various roles across Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

During his meeting with Foreign Minister Tkatchenko, Mr Arnold discussed IOM’s ongoing and planned initiatives in Papua New Guinea. He reaffirmed IOM’s commitment to supporting the government in leveraging migration for sustainable development and addressing emerging challenges, some highlighted during the Second Asia-Pacific Regional Review of the Global Compact for Migration in Bangkok, Thailand.

"It is an honor to present my credentials as IOM Chief of Mission in Papua New Guinea,” said Mr Arnold. “IOM has been a committed partner to Papua New Guinea since 2001, working closely with the government to address complex emergencies, provide humanitarian relief, and build capacity. We have collaborated on disaster risk reduction, community stabilization, and enhancing migration management. I am committed to supporting Papua New Guinea in addressing emerging challenges like climate change and strengthening resilience. I look forward to continuing our strong partnership and contributing to national development and the well-being of its people."

Foreign Minister Tkatchenko welcomed Mr Arnold, highlighting the timeliness of his arrival and expressing confidence in his leadership to enhance IOM’s mission. He noted that migration has been a key driver of development, growth, and prosperity, emphasizing its role in enhancing national resilience and progress.

Established in 1951, IOM is a responsive, results-oriented intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting and protecting migrant's dignity and well-being worldwide while aligning with local government policies and objectives.