For many of the millions forced to flee, returning home concludes an often traumatic time in exile. It may happen months, years or even decades after they left – and sometimes not at all.
Over the years, UNHCR has managed numerous voluntary repatriation programmes that have brought millions of displaced people home. In Afghanistan alone, we have helped some five million refugees return since 2002.
We also assist with small-scale and individual repatriations, and, where necessary, monitor the reintegration of returnees to ensure that their repatriation was a sustainable solution.