Easing the path home

The International Social Service Switzerland (ISS Switzerland) is part of a network of 120 countries that has been working for the individual rights of families and migrants since 1932. It provides social, legal and professional support in a transnational context, including its ‘Reintegration in the country of origin’ program.

Key to the ‘Reintegration in the country of origin’ ISS Switzerland program are the development and funding of individual and family projects for returning migrants. These projects can include vocational training, store creation, livestock breeding, agriculture, crafts, bakery, university education, etc. They provide a framework for returning migrants to build sustainable livelihoods back home.

Since 2008, the JTI Foundation has played an important role supporting ISS Switzerland in developing bespoke projects for potentially vulnerable migrants who have volunteered to return to their country of origin.

ISS Switzerland typically develops over 60 projects a year for beneficiaries, and these are generally implemented with the support of local partners in the ISS overseas network, covering over 120 countries. The JTI Foundation expects to directly support around 25 such projects during the current phase of this partnership and also fund a follow up field assessment.

The work of ISS Switzerland benefits returning migrants by providing resources and in-country support required to establish self-sustaining businesses. At the same time, the program encourages resourceful potential entrepreneurs to create opportunities that stimulate the economy of their home country.