As the focus on returning failed asylum seekers and other migrants to their countries of origin remains high, there is a commensurate need to consider reintegration support that assists returnees in rebuilding their lives. Reintegration programmes help returnees establish the social, economic, and psychosocial foundations needed to regain stability and, in the process, can aid host communities while seeking to address the drivers of irregular migration. Putting this support into practice is, however, very challenging—particularly in fragile settings, where infrastructure and services are limited, livelihood opportunities are scarce, and communities often contend with insecurity.

Beyond difficulties accessing housing and property, many returnees experience significant psychosocial needs, including trauma and social stigma. Organisations supporting returning migrants also navigate specific challenges, including difficulties operating in some areas and engaging with local and national authorities.

On this Migration Policy Institute Europe webinar, speakers will outline under what conditions return to these fragile settings happen, and representatives from organisations that support returning migrants in Iraq, Somalia, and other fragile environments will explore the specific challenges those environments pose for designing and delivering reintegration support. They also will discuss the role that reintegration programming can play in helping returnees rebuild their lives and strengthening social cohesion.