Assisted Voluntary Return departures from Belgium & COVID-19 global health crisis
As countries drastically reduce entry into their territories owing to the COVID-19 global health crisis, and restrictions around international air travel are introduced, travel arrangements for returning migrants are currently subject to severe disruptions.
Returnees are being directly impacted by these quickly evolving regulations in the course of their travel.
In addition, IOM, its donors and partners, are concerned that international travel could increase the exposure of migrants to the virus.
As a result, and in response to the decision of the Belgian government, IOM Belgium has temporarily put on hold the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration programme. Return and reintegration counselling however continues via phone or video conference, so that the return and reintegration of our beneficiaries is well prepared and can restart once the situation allows for it. This is a temporary measure that will be in place only for as long as it remains essential.
IOM monitors this exceptional situation very closely and will update the above information in due time.
For all return and reintegration-related questions, you can contact:
In French or English: Charlotte Crahay, tel. 0491/56.05.23
In Dutch or English: Karel Michiels, tel. 0499/64.80.94