UNHCR Working to Resume Sri Lankan Refugee Repatriation Amid Challenges in India

Nov 10, 2025 10:09 am CST

The UNHCR is working to resume voluntary repatriation of Sri Lankan refugees from India following recent arrests of returnees in Sri Lanka. With over 80,000 refugees in India, many face challenges including lack of citizenship and employment limitations despite Tamil Nadu's support programs. UNHCR Chief Areti Sienni emphasizes the need for durable solutions while acknowledging India's efforts as "an important example for the world."