The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has successfully facilitated the safe return of 53 Sri Lankan migrant workers from Lebanon, following an official request by the Government of Sri Lanka due to ongoing regional conflict.
According to a statement from the IOM, four groups of stranded workers in vulnerable conditions were repatriated on November 6, 12, and 28, and most recently on December 4, 2024.
The operation was conducted in collaboration with Sri Lanka’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, as well as the Sri Lankan Embassy in Lebanon and IOM Lebanon.
The IOM provided comprehensive support to the migrants, including medical evaluations, conducting vulnerability screenings, consular assistance and documentation support, organizing travel, offering pre-departure counseling, and managing logistics related to voluntary repatriation addressed upon their arrival in Sri Lanka.
Kristin Parco, Chief of Mission for IOM Sri Lanka, praised the effort as a testament to the power of coordinated action, expressing gratitude to all involved parties for prioritizing the well-being of standard Sri Lankans.
Currently, an estimated 7,600 Sri Lankan workers remain in Lebanon.
The IOM reiterated its commitment to ensuring the welfare and rights of migrants worldwide.
