Assisted Returns

IOM is deeply concerned about the plight of irregular migrants in need of assistance to return to their countries. IOM works with migrants and governments, designing and implementing voluntary return programmes and offering valuable practical support to governments.

IOM assists rejected asylum seekers, trafficked migrants, stranded students, labour migrants and qualified nationals to return home on a voluntary basis. IOM also works with other organizations helping to repatriate refugees. IOM can assist deportees when the assistance is provided before or after deportation proper, which is the responsibility of national law enforcement authorities.

The Organization offers core activities in each of the three chronological stages of returns: pre-departure, transportation and post-arrival. Projects may include information dissemination, counselling, medical assistance, travel allowances, return grants, transport assistance, reintegration and monitoring.

Please click here for more information on IOM's Voluntary Assisted Return Programme in Southern Africa.