Uzbek migrants waiting at the Kyiv Boryspil airport for IOM-assisted travel (2011)

In adherence with international practices, IOM Ukraine operates an Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme, which facilitates orderly, safe and dignified voluntary return options for irregular, stranded migrants and failed asylum seekers. IOM does not participate in any form of forced returns of migrants.

In the period of 2005-2011, IOM has assisted over 400 migrants (including families and unaccompanied minors) who were voluntarily returned from Ukraine to more than 25 countries of origin. IOM also provides reintegration assistance to Ukrainian returnees from such countries as the UK, Ireland, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, the Netherlands, Austria and Venezuela.

IOM also works on:

• Promoting the understanding of migration in the Ukrainian context, also on future challenges and opportunities (Migration, Development and Demographics);
• Analyzing and assessing migration trends and patterns (see “Migration in Ukraine: Facts and Figures”);
• Providing expert advice, reviews and input on migration related legislation (Legislative Initiative);
• Providing a forum for exchange on migration issues amongst interested and concerned stakeholders;
• Promoting international dialogue on migration, allowing Ukrainian officials and others to strengthen the exchange with colleagues in the region and globally.