In 1931, Alice Sickels became the institute's first executive director and a year later the IIMN hosted its first Festival of Nations. In 1938, the institute became an independent agency. Between that year and 1979, it resettled more than 24,000 refugees from around the world.
In 1931, Alice Sickels took on the role of executive director at the institute, and a year later, the IIMN held its first Festival of Nations. In 1938, the institute gained independence. Between that time and 1979, it relocated over 24,000 refugees from various regions.