The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Ghana has called on citizens to help reduce the stigmatization of migrant returnees. Speaking at a durbar to mark World Mental Health Day on October 10, 2025, the IOM, through its EU-funded program “A Ghanaian-European Safe and Prosperous People’s Mobility Project on Migration Governance – ATUU”, urged Ghanaians to show greater acceptance and empathy toward returnees.
The organization emphasized the need to eliminate the stigma and shame associated with deportation and to address the various mental health challenges that many returnees face. According to the IOM, financial stress, depression, anxiety, shame, and challenges in reintegrating into society are among the leading problems affecting migrant returnees.
Citizens were therefore encouraged to be more understanding, supportive, and inclusive toward individuals in such situations. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the mental and physical well-being of migrants and returnees through protection mechanisms implemented in collaboration with the Government of Ghana, as well as through social support initiatives like the durbar.
In an interview with reporters, Mr. Dominic Afriyie Agyemang, Director of the Immigration Unit at the Ministry of the Interior, disclosed that over 1,000 Ghanaians have recently returned and are struggling with various social issues stemming from daily stigmatization. He urged advocates to begin awareness creation at the grassroots level particularly in schools to help eradicate the stigma surrounding returnees and promote mental health education nationwide.
On the issue of government support, Dr. Japheth, Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Project Officer at IOM Ghana, commended the government for its dedication to promoting mental health awareness and supporting the reintegration of migrant returnees into society.