UNHCR, Governments of DRC and Rwanda recommit support for return and reintegration of refugees

ADDIS ABABA - UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomed the outcomes of a Tripartite Meeting held from 20-22 June in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the Governments of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Rwanda reaffirmed their commitment to work together, with UNHCR's support, to enable the voluntary, safe and dignified return of refugees between their countries.

This follows several notable regional developments, including the Washington Peace Agreement.

Bringing together technical experts and high-level officials from both governments and UNHCR, the meeting provided an opportunity to take stock of ongoing efforts, challenges and opportunities to pursue durable solutions for Congolese and Rwandan refugees in the two countries. Parties to the Tripartite Agreements committed to ensuring that returns are voluntary, safe and dignified, particularly in return areas that have long been impacted by conflict. A high-level ministerial meeting resulting in the signing of the Joint Communique took place on the final day of the meeting, and was presided over by UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Barham Salih; Vice Prime Minister, Minister of Interior, Security, Decentralisation and Customary Affairs, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Shabani Lukoo Bihango Jacquemain; and Minister in charge of Emergency Management, Rwanda, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Albert Murasira.

The governments highlighted the continuing voluntary repatriation of refugees from DRC to Rwanda, with almost 8,400 people returning in safety and dignity since January 2025, and an expected 10,000 returns in 2026. The meeting culminated in a joint communiqué emphasizing refugee return as a cornerstone of durable solutions and as a contribution to peacebuilding and regional stability. UNHCR reiterated its support for both governments throughout this process and underscored the need to intensify efforts to enhance refugees' self-reliance and reduce people's dependency on humanitarian assistance.

For decades, cycles of violence and instability in the DRC have forced millions of families to flee their homes, often multiple times, stripping them of safety and opportunities to rebuild their lives. This Tripartite process represents an important contribution to restoring hope, dignity, and stability for thousands of refugees.

UNHCR will continue to stand alongside the DRC and Rwanda, partners, and refugees to advance solutions that will end the forced displacement of thousands of Congolese and Rwandan refugees in the Great Lakes region.

We urge all stakeholders to translate commitment into concrete actions, sustained engagement and predictable resources, and ensure that returns and reintegration remain a viable and dignified choice for refugees. Donor and development investments are crucial to mobilize resources and ensure sustained support for return and reintegration, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure, services and livelihood opportunities.

The joint communique issued following the Tripartite meeting is available in English and French.

For more information, please contact:

• In Dakar (regional), Fidelia Bohissou, [email protected], +221 77 569 91 60
• In Nairobi (regional), Faith Kasina, [email protected] , +254 113 427 094
• In Geneva, Eujin Byun, [email protected], +41 22 739 7050