As part of the project Providing Comprehensive Assistance to Forcibly Returned Haitian Migrants, the Government of Japan has provided a financial contribution of USD 667,000 to the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

This program 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, including Anse-à-Pitres, Belladère, Cap-Haitien, and Ouanaminthe, 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 Yohei Ueno, Chargé d’Affaires at the Embassy of Japan in Haiti.

The current migration situation remains deeply concerning. Nearly 200,000 Haitians were forcibly returned to the country in 2024, while this figure rose to over 270,000 in 2025, representing a 36% increase compared to the previous year. The majority of returns originated from the Dominican Republic, but also from the United States, the Bahamas, and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Through this new contribution, Japan and the International Organization for Migration reaffirm their shared commitment to preserving human dignity, strengthening border stability, and supporting Haiti in managing current migration challenges.

HL/ HaitiLibre