
16/09/2025
Back Home: Voices Against Irregular Migration
Irregular migration often begins with hope, but for many women, it ends in heartbreak. From the voices of migrant women returnees, we hear not only about their journeys abroad, but also about the struggles of reintegration upon returning home.
Many left Ethiopia with dreams of a brighter future, misled by brokers, influenced by peers, or pressured by difficult circumstances. Crossing borders irregularly, they faced exploitation, abuse, and emotional trauma. Yet, coming back home was not always easier. Instead of support, many returnees encountered stigma, rejection, and isolation, leaving deep emotional scars.
To address these challenges, Population Media Center (PMC), with funding from UN Women, has launched a reintegration-focused project for migrant women and returnees.
📻 Through carefully researched interventions, PMC is implementing the project in Oromia, Amhara, Tigray, and Central Ethiopia, regions with some of the highest migration rates. Specific program sites include:
• Western & Eastern Hararghe (Oromia)
• Habru & Raya Kobo (Amhara)
• Raya Azebo (Tigray)
• Butajira (Central Ethiopia)
🎙️ This initiative has a powerful radio program, produced and broadcast in Amharic (ወደ ሀገር ቤት), Afan Oromo (Anaagaluu), and Tigrigna (ናብ ቤትና), all meaning “Back Home.” These programs raise awareness about the dangers of irregular migration, share the realities of returnees, and promote community support systems.
👥 To deepen impact, Radio Listener Groups (RLGs) have been formed across the project sites. These groups listen collectively, discuss the issues raised, and take responsibility to share the lessons with their wider communities, helping spread knowledge, empathy, and hope.
✨ Together, we are working to transform heartbreak into healing and reintegration.