A New Report by the Migration Policy Institute Explores the Perilous Journeys and Complex Reintegration of Somali Returnees
A recent report by the Migration Policy Institute (MPI) sheds light on the severe challenges faced by Somali migrants returning home after being stranded abroad. The study, titled “Migration Interrupted: Can Stranded Migrants from Ethiopia, Somalia, and Sudan Rebuild Their Lives upon Return?” explores the difficulties and successes of these returnees, supported by the EU-IOM Joint Initiative.
The report delves into the perilous journeys of Somali migrants who become stranded in transit countries like Libya and Yemen. Fleeing economic hardship or conflict, these migrants often encounter abuse, exploitation, and violence. The EU-IOM Joint Initiative, funded by the European Union’s Emergency Trust Fund for Africa, has provided essential support to over 134,000 migrants, assisting their return and reintegration.
“After suffering and starving, the best thing was to come home where we felt loved,” expressed a Somali returnee, summarizing the relief many feel upon returning. However, reintegration presents significant challenges. According to the report, 38% of Somali returnees incurred substantial debt during their migration, adding financial and emotional strain. The initiative’s support, including temporary housing, medical aid, and grants for microbusinesses, has been crucial in helping returnees rebuild their lives.
Migration routes from East Africa are notoriously dangerous. The northern route through Libya is especially perilous, with many Somali migrants experiencing human rights abuses. The MPI report emphasizes the need for comprehensive reintegration support, highlighting that economic assistance and psychosocial support are vital. In Somalia, returnees who received microbusiness grants showed significant improvement in reintegration, often surpassing non-migrant counterparts in economic stability.
Despite the assistance provided, reintegration remains difficult. Many returnees face stigma and isolation. “People don’t always believe in you when you return from migration,” said Yasir, a Somali returnee, noting the social barriers to reintegration. The report stresses the importance of community support and timely, tailored assistance to address these challenges.
The MPI report calls for sustained, flexible funding for reintegration programs in the Horn of Africa. As the EU-IOM Joint Initiative ended in 2023, future programs must learn from its successes. Key recommendations include involving families in the reintegration process and addressing returnees’ psychological readiness. Coordinated efforts to inform families ahead of return and support debt resolution pathways are also essential.
This comprehensive report underscores the urgent need for continued and enhanced support for Somali migrants returning home. Their stories of hardship and resilience highlight the complexities of migration and the critical importance of robust reintegration programs.
