Return and reintegration of migrants to their countries of origin or third countries are an integral part of human mobility. As a migrant worker sending country, Indonesia experiences a surge of returning migration every year. From January to July 2024 alone, 10,195 Indonesian Migrants returned home from more than 25 destination countries, according to data from the Indonesian Migrant Worker Protection Agency (BP2MI).  

Despite the extensive efforts to ensure safe return by the government and non-governmental stakeholders, the return and reintegration process remains complex. The challenges are reflected in multidimensional problems including economic, social, and psychosocial. In light of these ongoing challenges, IOM organized a workshop in Jakarta on "Strengthening Return and Reintegration Support for Victims of Trafficking and Vulnerable Migrants" in Jakarta, on 15 October 2024. The event was attended by 35 participants from various ministries and agencies involved in the Anti-Trafficking Task Force and NGOs focused on protecting migrant workers and VOTs.   

“The return and reintegration program is beyond facilitating the return of victims of trafficking and vulnerable migrants, it also aims to help them rebuild their lives by achieving social, economic, and psychosocial stability, so we can call it sustainable," said Jeffrey Labovitz, Chief of Mission, IOM Indonesia, during his opening remark.  

Meanwhile, Brigadier General Adhi Satya Perkasa, Assistant Deputy for Coordination of National Security and Public Order at the Coordinating Ministry for Political, Legal, and Security Affairs, officially opened the workshop. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of cooperation and coordination for improving the prevention and handling of victims of trafficking and vulnerable migrants.  

"Trafficking in persons is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive, multi-sectoral approach from all stakeholders to address victims' needs. Prevention efforts must also be strengthened to better protect those who migrate," he said.  

The workshop was divided into three sections to discuss current return and reintegration programming, identify challenges, and strategic steps for future improvements. During the first session, IOM representatives Moussoumakhan Diallo and Eny Rofiatul shared insights on IOM’s approach to return and reintegration, including best practices in Indonesia.  

“From January to October 15, 2024, IOM has assisted the return of 157 migrants in Indonesia to their home countries and facilitated the return of 142 Indonesian migrant workers back to Indonesia. These individuals received various services based on their needs, such as counseling, return to their regions of origin, and reintegration support,” said Moussou who is the Programme Officer for Movement and Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) at IOM Indonesia.  

The second and third sessions were panel discussions participated by various ministries and non-governmental organizations. During the panel, several challenges in providing return and reintegration support were mentioned, such as limited access to employment opportunities, insufficient collaboration with the private sector, lack of coordination between agencies, and the high number of referrals outpacing available human resources, resulting in less comprehensive services. Legal enforcement obstacles and limited information about available services were also highlighted. 

An interesting comment came from Anna Wijayanti, Coordinator of Empowerment at the Indonesian Migrant Workers Union (SBMI) who highlighted the handling of male VOTs. “When it comes to services for male trafficking victims, challenges arise during their return and reintegration, as many victims feel ashamed to return to their families or communities. Program adjustments are needed to address victims' needs, such as through community-based empowerment initiatives,” she said.  

IOM believes that return and reintegration shall incorporate integrated approach, promoting the rights of the migrants and focuses on the well-being of individual returnees throughout the entire process. The organization will continue to embrace its commitment to ensure that all migration journeys were conducted in safe, regular, and orderly manner.   

The workshop was supported by the Bali Process Programme 2024 implemented by IOM in Indonesia.