In a significant step towards enhancing regional cooperation, IOM Georgia hosted a regional workshop on July 12, focusing on the sustainable reintegration of migrants. The event, which underscored the importance of sharing experiences and best practices, brought together officials from Georgia, Armenia, and Moldova, alongside IOM colleagues and a representative from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

The workshop highlighted the complex socio-economic effects of migration in Eastern Europe and the South Caucasus, emphasizing the need for the returned migrants to reintegrate effectively into their home societies. Sanja Celebic Lukovac, Chief of Mission of IOM Georgia, opened the event by stressing the necessity of a platform where stakeholders could exchange insights on the reintegration process, share successful strategies, and enhance their awareness and knowledge on existing practices in the neighboring countries.

Discussions delved into the critical role of policy and governance in reintegration, the impact of support programs, and a Moldovan case study on harnessing migration for development. The proactive role of governments in facilitating access to services and the long-term sustainability of reintegration programs were key themes. The workshop also showcased examples of community-level initiatives from Georgia, Armenia and Moldova, fostering a further discussion among participants.

This workshop builds on a recent study visit in Armenia earlier this year, aiming to cultivate better collaborative approaches among the Armenia and Georgia for the cause of sustainable reintegration, funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and co-funded by IOM Development Fund (IDF).