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2.3 STATISTICS ON VOLUNTARY DEPARTURES 4
TABLE 4
STATISTICS ON VOLUNTARY DEPARTURES
Year Number of Voluntary Departures
2000 25,483
2001 3,415
2002 2,870
2003 2,983
Source: Federal Office for Refugees.
2.4 BEST PRACTICES AND LESSONS LEARNED
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SWITZERLAND
During 2003, the cost-efficiency of AVR measures became a major subject of discussion and
interest in Switzerland. In particular the cost efficiency of AVR activities in general comparison
to the cost of implementing the forced return of a rejected asylum seeker, or his/her continued
stay in Switzerland has been assessed. Initial analysis clearly shows that comprehensive return
packages with generous incentives (housing, cash-for-care, medical assistance, financial assistance,
etc.) still turn out to be much cheaper than a prolonged stay in Switzerland or a forced
return. Consequently, a recent trend in Switzerland has been to also support vulnerable persons
in their voluntary return.
Another lesson learned is that the close cooperation among cantonal, federal and international
partners such as IOM is key to successful return and reintegration activities.
Finally, an important lesson emerging in post-conflict situations, is the need to guarantee a rapid
and robust support system for the creation of a possible return mechanism within the concerned
diaspora, through effective return assistance measures. The option to return should be actively
supported, especially in post-conflict situations, otherwise there is a risk that persons in irregular
circumstances will be motivated to prolong their stay in Switzerland.