Beyond Borders: Reflections on the Repatriation Journey
Syrians’ Homecoming Journey. Source: Wikimedia; Google Image
by: Rasha Istaiteyeh, Hashemite University
The global landscape has witnessed unprecedented waves of migration and displacement, with millions of individuals seeking refuge in foreign lands. While the journey to a new home is often fraught with challenges, the return to one's homeland can be equally complex. By the end of 2022, 108.4 million people were forcibly displaced worldwide as a result of persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations. Around 6 million displaced people returned to their areas or countries of origin in 2022, including 5.7 million internally displaced people and 339,300 refugees.
1. The Global Return: Refugees and Migrants Reclaiming Their Homelands
1.1. Middle East Region:
Following prolonged periods of conflict and extensive violence in Iraq, close to 5 million individuals who were previously internally displaced have returned. These returnees reside in inadequate living conditions and are in need of aid and backing to fulfill their fundamental requirements. Despite the fact that the number of returnees surpasses the count of those still internally displaced, a considerable portion faces challenges in the process of reintegration and continues to rely on humanitarian support.
Between January and August 2023, The Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) recorded a total of 90,806 migrants and 35,071 Yemeni migrant returnees to Yemen.
From January to October 2022, 43,254 individuals returned to Syria. This number constitutes a small percentage of the total number of returnees since 2016 . From 2016 to 2023, there were 385,344 self-organized refugee returns to Syria.
1.2. The European Economic Area and the United Kingdom:
In 2020, European Union (EU) Member States issued a "return decision" to approximately 291,000 irregular migrants, but only 61,951 people were effectively returned (either forcibly or voluntarily). With Frontex's assistance, 24,850 people returned in 2022. In 2022, a total of 19,550 migrants were assisted in returning to the European Economic Area, accounting for 28% of the total global caseload.
1.3. African region:
Approximately 344,359 newly arrived refugee returnees have come to South Sudan.
695,516 individuals have returned to their homes within Libya after being internally displaced .
Between 2020 and 2022, at least 13,917 Nigerians from Africa and Europe voluntarily returned to the country.
2. Refugees and migrants to and from Jordan
Jordan is considered one of the most welcoming countries for refugees and migrants from its surrounding nations and many others. This is particularly evident as Jordan has consistently supported humanitarian causes, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds. The following figures highlight this commitment, showcasing Jordan's dedication to being an advocate for human rights and offering hospitality to all.
2.1. Syrian in Jordan
Since the beginning of the Syrian crisis in 2011, Jordan has hosted over 1.3 million Syrian refugees, including the approximately 655,000 Syrian refugees registered with UNHCR. During the first seven months of this year, 2,582 Syrian refugees left Jordan to return to Syria.
In August 2015, nearly 4000 refugees returned to Syria from Jordan, roughly twice as many as the previous month. From 2016 to 2023, the total number of voluntary Syrian refugee returns from Jordan is 68,233.
2.2. Other Nationalities in Jordan
Jordan's total number of international migrants is estimated to be 3,346,703. less than half a million of whom can be considered economic migrants. Since 2014, the inflow of Syrian refugees has confirmed this pattern, with refugees accounting for 87% of total immigrants over the past decade. Jordan was hosting over 745,000 refugees as of January 2020, including over 655,000 Syrians and nearly 100,000 other nationalities.
2.3. Jordanian Migrants abroad
Amman Alia Airport. Source: Wikimedia; Google Image
The return of Jordanian expatriates underscores a significant narrative, highlighting their response to global uncertainties. This journey reflects the intricate challenges faced by individuals seeking stability, emphasizing the resilient connection between Jordanians and their homeland.
From 1973 to the mid-1980s, the Gulf region, especially Kuwait, was the favored destination for Jordanian laborers. They were later supplanted by workers from Asia. The doors to employment for Jordanians closed during the first Gulf War in 1990, prompting them to redirect their attention towards North America, particularly the United States and Canada. A new turning point occurred on September 11, 2001, ushering in a change with more stringent immigration policies in the Western countries.
According to the Jordanian National Employment Strategy, "the number of emigrants has been volatile over the years, influenced by oil prices as well as political events". Jordan is a migrant-sending country; an estimated 10% of Jordanians are expatriated abroad, the majority to the Gulf States. The invasion of Kuwait resulted in the largest influx of returnees, who were mostly Palestinian Jordanians looking for work in the wealthy Gulf state. Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait resulted in 400,000 returnees. Estimated figures indicate that approximately one million Jordanians are living in 70 countries globally, with more than 75% of them working in Gulf countries, notably in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The rise in unemployment among migrant workers caused by COVID-19 was exacerbated by their limited access to services and rights, increasing the likelihood that foreign workers will choose to return home. The number of Jordanian expatriates is estimated to be 750,000, with the vast majority residing in the Gulf states. The Minister of Labour approximated that up to 150,000 individuals residing abroad would come back to Jordan as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Challenges Faced by Returning Individuals
Economic Reintegration: When refugees and migrants return home, they frequently face economic challenges. Factors such as job scarcity, skill mismatches, and a lack of resources can impede their ability to secure sustainable livelihoods. Governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), the third sector, play critical roles in facilitating access to job opportunities, vocational training, and financial resources.
Psychological Well-being: The mental health of returning refugees and migrants requires special attention. Trauma, loss, and displacement can have long-term consequences. Mental health services, counseling, and awareness programs can help them deal with the emotional challenges they may face during the reintegration process.
Social Reintegration: Reestablishing social ties is an important aspect of reintegration. Returning citizens may face stigma or alienation, making community-based programs that promote inclusivity essential. Social support networks, cultural sensitivity workshops, and public awareness campaigns all help to make the environment more welcoming.
Strategies for Effective Reintegration
Government Policies and Programs: Governments play a critical role in developing policies that assist returning citizens. These policies could include financial incentives for businesses that hire returnees, educational initiatives, and housing assistance. Establishing a clear legal framework protects returnee rights and facilitates easier integration.
International Cooperation: Addressing the challenges of returning refugees and migrants necessitates international cooperation.
Empowerment through Education: Education is a powerful tool for empowerment. Initiatives focusing on skill development, language acquisition, and educational opportunities help returning citizens succeed in the long run.
Contact:
Rasha Istaiteyeh, Hashemite University, Jordan | ristaiteyeh@hu.edu.jo