UNHCR helps 42,000 refugees return home in 2025 despite election uncertainties

Voluntary returns drop amid political tensions, yet UNHCR stays committed. Can 10,000 more refugees safely go home by year’s end?

, and Administrator

2025 November 7 . 11:05 PM

1 min read

This picture describes about group of people, few are standing and few are walking, in this we can... — This picture describes about group of people, few are standing and few are walking, in this we can find a plant, statue, few lights and buildings.

UNHCR helps 42,000 refugees return home in 2025 despite election uncertainties

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has been facilitating the return of refugees to their homelands. Since 2021, over 272,000 individuals have been assisted in their journey back, with most returning to Nigeria and the Central African Republic. In 2025, the agency aims to help another 10,000 people return to their countries of origin.

UNHCR emphasises that these returns must be voluntary and conducted in dignified conditions, with sustainable livelihoods awaiting the returnees. In 2025 alone, over 42,000 refugees have chosen to return to their homelands. However, the number of returnees this year is lower than previous years due to upcoming elections in several countries, which can create uncertainty and instability.

UNHCR continues to support voluntary returns, with a focus on ensuring dignified and sustainable conditions for the returnees. Despite the lower number of returnees in 2025, the agency remains committed to its goal of facilitating the return of another 10,000 people to their countries of origin by the end of the year.