Introduction: Return and reintegration remain the least explored phase of the outbound labour migration process. Every year, an estimated 200,000–300,000 Sri Lankans migrate for overseas employment, primarily to the Middle East, with most expected to return after their contracts end. Although often overlooked upon return, returnees can meaningfully contribute to community and national development if their reintegration needs are addressed.Objectives: To explore the perceptions and service needs related to reintegration among returnee Middle East migrant workers in the Kurunegala District, Sri LankaMethods: This qualitative study employed focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews (IDIs) to gather insights from male and female returnee migrant workers across diverse manpower levels, and their family members in the Kurunegala District, Sri Lanka. A pre-tested, semi-structured moderator/interviewer guide was used for data collection. Six FGDs involving 51 participants and 19 IDIs were conducted until theoretical saturation, and the data were analysed using thematic analysis.Results: Two key themes emerged: ‘perceptions and barriers to reintegration support’ and ‘service needs for successful reintegration.’ Participants reported limited access to reintegration support services and multiple barriers to utilization, resulting in widespread unmet needs. Migration-related health risks and poor awareness of available healthcare services upon return often delay timely care access to healthcare. The need for migrant-friendly public services, including healthcare, was strongly emphasized. Additional service needs included job-oriented vocational training, children’s education, and access to psychological support.Conclusions & Recommendations: Reintegration is a critical yet often overlooked phase of the international labour migration process, leaving many returnees with unmet service needs. Addressing these service needs particularly through a responsive health system and accessible, migrant-friendly public services, is essential to support successful reintegration and harness the potential contributions of returnees to national development.
Wijeratne et al. (Mon,) studied this question.