UP-CIFAL PH, PCGM Learners Host Two Webinars on Migrant Repatriation and Reintegration

The University of the Philippines Centre International de Formation des Autorités et Leaders (UP-CIFAL) Philippines, along with the learners from the sixth iteration of the Professional Course on Global Migration, hosted two significant webinars last 25 and 26 November 2024, focusing on the challenges and opportunities surrounding the reintegration of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and the repatriation of migrants in conflict zones.

The first webinar, “Migrant Repatriation: Challenges and Opportunities – A Case Study on Lebanon,” examined the ongoing repatriation efforts for Filipino migrants affected by the escalating conflict in Lebanon. With tensions rising between Israel and Hezbollah, the Philippine government initiated repatriation efforts for the 17,000 Filipinos residing in Lebanon. This webinar explored the critical issues involved in repatriation during conflict, with a focus on social protection, cross-border collaboration, and strategic tools for safe and voluntary returns.

The session featured expert speakers from various organizations, including the International Organization for Migration (IOM), UMCOR, and the Department of Migrant Workers. Discussions centered on the role of social protection in safeguarding the rights of displaced migrants, the importance of cross-border collaboration in facilitating repatriation, and the strategic tools necessary for ensuring effective and humane responses to migrant needs in conflict zones.

Through a case study on Lebanon, the webinar highlighted the challenges and best practices for managing migration in crisis settings, emphasizing the need for strong partnerships between governments, international organizations, and civil society to protect migrants and facilitate their safe return.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/danXv4tsIcU 

The second webinar, “Challenges to and Opportunities for Reintegrating Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs),” explored the complex process of reintegrating OFWs back into Philippine society. Despite their substantial contributions to the country’s economy, many returning OFWs face substantial hurdles in rebuilding their lives due to fragmented reintegration programs, limited employment opportunities, and financial instability.

The webinar brought together migration stakeholders including migrant workers, government agencies, NGOs, and academics to discuss the barriers OFWs face and the opportunities for empowerment they bring to their communities. Experts also discussed two critical sub-topics: the definition and key concepts of reintegration, and the personal experiences and challenges faced by returned OFWs and their families. By focusing on comprehensive strategies, the session aimed to propose actionable recommendations to enhance reintegration efforts and improve the socioeconomic integration of returning migrants.

Key highlights included interviews with returned migrants, and expert insights from government officials and academic researchers. The session concluded with a discussion on policy recommendations aimed at smoothing the reintegration process for OFWs.

Watch here: https://youtu.be/oaudYCJjdKg