IOM Azerbaijan provided cash and in-kind reintegration assistance to 147 returnees from January to April of 2023

IOM Azerbaijan continues its efforts to provide reintegration assistance to returnees – citizens of Azerbaijan who voluntarily returned from abroad under the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) projects. Such assistance is intended to ensure the sustainability of returns, i.e., to help individuals who return voluntarily to their countries of origin firmly re-establish themselves as part of the home society.

From January to April 2023, a total of 539 Azerbaijani nationals voluntarily returned to Azerbaijan as part of the AVRR projects. The top return countries were Moldova (460 persons), Germany (53 persons), Netherlands (9 persons), Austria (9 persons), Latvia (6 persons), Belarus (1), and Romania (1).

During the reporting time, IOM Azerbaijan conducted comprehensive reintegration counseling sessions with returnees, and a total of 147 returnees received reintegration assistance.

Out of the 147 beneficiaries, IOM Azerbaijan provided cash assistance to 43 returnees, while 102 returnees received in-kind assistance. The in-kind assistance offered a range of support, including temporary housing, support for starting small businesses, purchasing home appliances and furniture, as well as covering health and educational needs.

Within the framework of the AVRR projects, returnees were provided with assistance in setting up small business activities, providing temporary housing, assistance with necessary household items, and meeting medical needs. With the support of the IOM, individuals who voluntarily returned from abroad to Azerbaijan have established their entrepreneurial activities in the field of small farming (purchase of small and cattle), service sector (for example taxi), small trade, and production.