The United Nations has welcomed Sri Lanka’s decision to simplify immigration procedures aimed at expediting the voluntary return of refugees who fled to India during the country’s civil war without valid documents.
UN Resident Coordinator Marc-Andre Franche said the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees would continue to facilitate the return and resettlement of these refugees through the world body.
In a post on “X”, Franche said he welcomed the Cabinet’s decision on procedures for the voluntary return of Sri Lankan refugees, describing it as a key step towards ensuring a safe and dignified return to the country after years of displacement.
The Sri Lankan government made special arrangements earlier this month for the initiative, which is intended to streamline the process and facilitate the return of refugees currently residing in India.
Sri Lankan refugees began arriving in large numbers in Tamil Nadu following the outbreak of ethnic violence on the island in 1983, and the subsequent escalation of the armed conflict between government forces and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam.
According to figures cited, around 18,000 refugees returned home between 2002 and 2022, while approximately 90,000 continue to reside in the southern Indian state.