Japan contributes funds to IOM to assist repatriated Haitians
PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti (CMC) — The Government of Japan has provided a financial contribution of US$667,000 to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) as part of the Providing Comprehensive Assistance to Forcibly Returned Haitian Migrants project.
This programme aims to address the urgent needs of forcibly returned Haitian migrants in a context of widespread insecurity, prolonged political instability and severe economic hardship in Haiti.
“This contribution will enable IOM and its partners to provide essential assistance to migrants returning in extremely vulnerable conditions, while strengthening vital infrastructure and services at key border crossings and improving water, sanitation and hygiene infrastructure at these priority sites,” said Grégoire Goodstein, IOM chief of mission in Haiti.
The project is designed to provide immediate humanitarian assistance and support to forcibly returned migrants arriving in highly vulnerable situations.
Planned activities include frontline reception and screening, identification of specific vulnerabilities, basic medical assistance, mental health and psychosocial support, referrals to protection services, and limited transportation assistance to enable migrants to safely return to their communities of origin.
Special attention will be given to the most vulnerable groups, including unaccompanied children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, the elderly, and migrants requiring urgent medical care.
All activities will be conducted in close coordination with national and local authorities, including the National Migration Office (ONM), the Institute for Social Welfare and Research (IBESR), the Haitian National Police (PNH), the Ministry of Public Health and Population (MSPP), and humanitarian partners operating on the ground.
“This support reflects Japan’s continued commitment to the Haitian people during this particularly difficult time. It will provide essential humanitarian assistance to those facing extremely challenging conditions upon their return to Haiti,” said Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Japan in Haiti, Yohei Ueno.
