Migration in Burundi: History, Current Trends and Future - MGSoG ...

and engagement is intended to bridge the gap between assistance to returnees and
broader development efforts and aims to improve the socio-economic conditions in
areas of return (UNHCR 2009, p11).
The MIDA programme, especially the one being implemented in the Netherlands
for Burundi, is criticized for being too selective and for engaging in less consultation with
targeted communities and diaspora organizations. The Burundi diaspora organization
IZERE, for example, often organizes activities every year and invites MIDA officials to
hear their ideas and suggestion on how the return of Burundian professionals to help
with reconstruction and other areas of need can be facilitated. 46 This invitation is
informed by the belief that many Burundians in the Netherlands could benefit much
more through MIDA, but due to the ineffectiveness of the programme and fear
regarding the motives of the programme, many migrants are reluctant to participate.
The lack of consultation, feelings of uncertainty, and image upon return are cited
as some of the major obstacles to success of MIDA. Many Burundians in the
Netherlands have numerous problems ranging from psychological conditions, financial
and economic dependency among family and relatives back home, lack of employment,
and long durations stuck in the asylum procedure. Many cite depression due to lack of
employment caused by little knowledge of the language, and a relatively small number of
Burundians in the Netherlands can access support networks to help them overcome
other serious problems that hinder their participation in Dutch society. The emotional
problems associated with lack of opportunities makes it difficult to consider returning
home, especially when they feel they have nothing to take along in terms of investment
or work experience. 47
On the ground in Burundi, the UNHCR works in close collaboration with the
national authorities, its implementing partners and donors, the United Nations Integrated
Office in Burundi (BINUB), and UN sister agencies. The main governmental
counterparts are the Ministry of the Interior and Communal Development and the
Ministry of National Solidarity, Repatriation, National Reconstruction, Human Rights
and Gender. The Office works closely with a number of special government agencies
such as the Commission Nationale des Terres et Autres Biens. The UNHCR will
continue to play a key role in the Integrated Commission for Repatriation and
46 Interview October 5, and November 10, 2009
47 Interview November 26, 2009
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