Returnees

Amid expanding global conflicts, 89.3 million people are now displaced worldwide.

How does UNHCR help refugees return home?

Assisting refugees to return home is part of UNHCR's core mandate. We collaborate with States and other partners to promote, facilitate and coordinate individual and large-scale voluntary repatriations and monitor the reintegration of returnees to ensure it is a sustainable solution. 

• Ensure returns are voluntary and safe: We work to ensure that any returns are voluntary, dignified, and that refugees will be safe on their return – free from persecution, violence and the remnants of war, such as landmines. We may also provide transport so they can reach their area of origin safely.
   
• Help refugees make an informed choice: Often, refugees may find it difficult to believe it is safe to go back to the place they once had to flee to escape conflict, widespread violence, or targeted persecution. We help them access relevant information so they can make an informed choice on if and when they should return. We compile and share information, provide counselling, and organize ‘go-and-see’ visits so they can visit their place of origin and assess the situation for themselves.
   
• Rebuild infrastructure: In many countries emerging from prolonged conflict, critical infrastructure may have been destroyed or fallen into disrepair. We work with local governments and development agencies to rebuild or repair schools, water systems, roads and health clinics so areas are ready for people to return to.
   
• Support reintegration and access to rights: We support returnees to find housing and dignified work, enroll their children in school and access civil documents, such as birth or marriage certificates. We may provide cash assistance to help them cover their initial basic needs, such as personal hygiene items, household items and rent. We also work to ensure they have the same legal and civil-political rights as their fellow nationals. People who return are more likely to stay when they are safe, can recover their property, have adequate housing, can earn a living, keep their children in school and live peacefully with their neighbours.
   
• Rehabilitate land when camps close: When refugee settlements and camps close, we try to return land in the condition that will best benefit the owners and people who live nearby. This may mean planting trees or simply leaving land to regenerate naturally. We also work with local communities to make sure they can continue to benefit from facilities like schools and medical clinics established with the influx of displaced people.

UNHCR's engagement with returnees is usually time-limited, with the goal of transferring responsibilities to the local State and development agencies as countries transition through the post-conflict phase. Helping forcibly displaced people return home requires the full commitment of the country of origin to reintegrate its own people, along with the continuing support of the international community to ensure those who return can rebuild their lives in a safe and stable environment and are not forced to flee again. 

What is voluntary repatriation?

When refugees make an informed decision to return home, free of any pressure from outside forces or their own families or communities, their return is called voluntary repatriation. When conditions are safe for the voluntary return of the majority of refugees, UNHCR will promote return and encourage refugees to learn more about the conditions in their area of origin. If we do not believe it is safe, we will not promote repatriation, however, we will still support individuals who choose to spontaneously return home.

UNHCR plays a leading role, collaborating with States and other partners, to promote, facilitate, and coordinate voluntary repatriation in safety and dignity. We do this through: