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Framework Agreements with Countries of Origin or Transit
See section on involuntary agreements.
2.3 STATISTICS ON VOLUNTARY RETURN
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Since the beginning of the IOM-implemented AVR programme in October 2003 to the end of
December 2003, about 1,000 applicants have submitted completed applications for voluntary
return to the selection commission. Of these, 192 applications were approved and have either
travelled, or will travel shortly. Twenty-four were placed on a priority waiting list, while 91 were
on an ordinary waiting list, due to travel in January. Nine applications were discontinued, either
because the applicants withdrew them or they went missing.
The main countries of origin of applicants are Ecuador (498), Colombia (95), Bolivia (88) and
Argentina (61). Other principal regions of return include eastern Europe and sub-Saharan Africa.
In addition to these completed applications, the IOM office in Madrid receives on average about
200 phone calls and 50 visits per day for assistance on voluntary return, resulting in an estimated
70 to 100 approved cases from municipalities each week.
Regarding statistics for non-IOM implemented AVR programmes, a statement in the Spanish
parliament on 30 April 2003, indicates that the various NGOs operating voluntary return programmes
had jointly managed to send home 705 migrants from 1 January 2000 to 30 April 2003.
2.4 BEST PRACTICES AND LESSONS LEARNED
Assessments and Evaluations
An initial internal assessment of the IOM-run programme suggests that it is functioning well and
applicants are generally pleased with the results. Despite the lack of a comprehensive information
campaign promoting the option of assisted voluntary return, there is a high demand for the
programme, which receives an average of 100 completed applications per week.
The capacity of the programme could undoubtedly be enhanced if a more coordinated approach
was taken – nearly 1,000 applications have been received from September to December 2003,
although the budget only provides for 150 candidates each year.
Nevertheless, cooperation between implementing agencies is reported to be satisfactory and the
possibility of future cooperation with partners in the countries of origin is also being explored.