13th-15th APRIL 2027
LISBON, PORTUGAL

Chiara Pettinelli

Chiara Pettinelli

  • Programme Officer – Immigration & Border Governance
  • IOM Mozambique

    Chiara Pettinelli is a Programme Officer for Immigration and Border Governance at the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Mozambique, where she coordinates projects on border governance, migration management, legal identity, countering organised crimes and community policing. Her work includes strengthening cross-border cooperation with neighbouring countries, improving protection-sensitive border procedures, and addressing the vulnerabilities of people on the move.

    Previously, Chiara coordinated inter-agency work on migration and displacement at the United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office, and worked on EU migration and security policy at ICF and the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights. Chiara’s experience also includes roles at the Italian Ministry of Labour and within civil society organisations. She holds an LL.M. in International and European Law from Tilburg University and an M.A. in European Political and Governance Studies from the College of Europe.

    Sessions

    • Border Management Challenges: Irregular Migration and Fluid Border Environments

      Advancing Secure and Inclusive Border Management through Biometric Border Passes: Field Insights from Mozambique-Malawi

      Border management challenges are increasingly influenced by irregular migration trends driven by economic instability, armed conflict, environmental changes, and social unrest. Conflicts in regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Central America have led to persistent refugee crises, prompting many individuals to seek asylum in neighbouring countries or distant nations. Additionally, the rise in irregular migration has exacerbated vulnerabilities, making individuals more susceptible to human trafficking and exploitation. Climate change further complicates these dynamics, as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and resource scarcity displace communities and disrupt livelihoods. Considering these complex and fluid border environments, governments worldwide must urgently enhance their understanding of the multifaceted issues associated with irregular migration and trafficking. This includes the development of comprehensive policies that effectively balance humanitarian needs with national security concerns.