BRUSSELS, Belgium – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) welcomes the European Commission’s proposal for a new European legal framework for returns, recognizing the need for a system that is effective and fair.
The Organization particularly welcomes its encouragement of voluntary returns and reintegration as part of a balanced and humane approach to migration governance.
Robust, well-run return systems are essential to maintaining the integrity of migration and asylum policies in support of States’ sovereign right to regulate migration. Effective systems also preserve the integrity of a migrant’s right to return voluntarily and with dignity.
While IOM recognizes the challenges in managing and improving returns, we encourage the EU to maintain robust safeguards to ensure that returns are carried out in a humane and dignified manner.
Effective return policies should not only focus on the act of return itself but also afford returnees the opportunities needed to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into their communities in a sustainable manner. Reintegration efforts in countries of origin can be linked to local development initiatives that also address drivers of irregular migration.
Collaboration between the European Commission, EU member states, EU agencies, third countries, and international partners will be crucial for implementing the new legal framework when approved. Enhancing national return mechanisms, improving national and EU-wide coordination, and fostering reintegration ownership in third countries can contribute to a more comprehensive and balanced approach.
IOM notes that the proposal also lays the basis for external solutions such as return hubs. The Organization stands ready to advise and assist States in the design and operationalization of innovative return policy that is both effective and in line with European and international law.
During this first official visit to Guatemala, DG Pope met with president Bernardo Arévalo and vice-president Karin Herrera to discuss migration management, regional cooperation, and support for Guatemalan returnees in line with the Guatemalan government’s National Return Home Plan (Plan Retorno al Hogar). These discussions underscored the critical role of coordinated efforts in addressing migration challenges and ensuring returning migrants receive the assistance they need to reintegrate with dignity.
“More people are returning home, often under incredibly difficult circumstances,” said DG Pope. “IOM is committed to ensuring that return is safe and dignified while strengthening the conditions that allow people to build a future where they are. That’s why IOM is working closely with the Guatemalan government and other partners to make sure that returning home isn’t just a moment—it’s the start of something better.”
In recent weeks, southbound migration has surged, with 65% of migrants recorded on irregular routes in Guatemala traveling south. Many face extreme hardship, requiring urgent humanitarian assistance, reintegration support, and safe return options. IOM’s Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) programs are playing a critical role in supporting this shift, facilitating safe returns from key transit points and responding to emerging migration routes through the Guna Yala territory.
Through partnerships with governments, donors, and the private sector, IOM remains committed to meeting the urgent needs of people on the move while advancing long-term solutions that address the root causes of migration and promote stability.
