Uzbekistan leads regional efforts in repatriation and reintegration

The event, held on December 10 at the UN Headquarters, focused on the activities of the Regional Experts Council on Rehabilitation and Reintegration of Persons Returned from Conflict Zones. It was organized by Uzbekistan's Permanent Mission to the UN and the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies, with support from UN bodies.

At the gathering, Kazakhstan assumed the chairmanship of the Council, succeeding Uzbekistan. Russia and the United States, represented by their UN ambassadors, expressed strong support for the Council's initiatives.

Uzbekistan’s comprehensive repatriation model

Since 2019, Uzbekistan has successfully repatriated over 530 individuals, primarily women and children, from conflict-affected regions. These returnees received medical, social, and psychological support. In addition, programs were developed to provide vocational training and employment opportunities, ensuring their effective reintegration into society.

Speakers at the event praised Uzbekistan’s approach to repatriation, emphasizing its commitment to human rights and the protection of children. Former UN Special Rapporteur Fionnuala Ní Aoláin highlighted Uzbekistan's perspective, describing repatriated children as “protected members of the nation who would be reintegrated into society,” which she credited as a key to the program's success.

Regional collaboration and commitment

Central Asian nations have collectively demonstrated significant political will and commitment by repatriating their citizens from conflict zones. This effort underscores their dedication to fulfilling international obligations and addressing humanitarian concerns.

The upcoming year will see Kazakhstan taking over the Council's leadership. Ambassador Kairat Umarov, head of Kazakhstan's Permanent Mission to the UN, pledged to build on existing initiatives and ensure their successful implementation.