Switzerland is committed to strengthening the sustainable reintegration of migrants and developing countries of origin
Bern-Wabern, 12.05.2026 — Switzerland and Tunisia are co-chairing a meeting as part of the Rabat Process, aimed at strengthening the link between the sustainable reintegration of returning migrants and development in their countries of origin. The meeting brings together more than thirty countries located along the migration routes between Europe and Africa.
On 12 May 2026, Switzerland and Tunisia are hosting a conference in Lausanne on the sustainable reintegration of returning migrants and development in their countries of origin. This meeting brings together more than thirty countries from Europe and Africa, and aims to strengthen collaboration between governments, civil society and the private sector in order to develop genuine and innovative solutions. It forms part of the Euro-African dialogue on migration and development, known as the Rabat Process.
The sustainable reintegration of returning migrants into their countries of origin is an essential component of effective migration governance, based on respect for human rights. Support provided to returning migrants enables them to become agents of development in their countries of origin through the transfer of skills and knowledge, as well as investments in micro-enterprises.
In 2025, 132,660 people returned to their countries of origin from a European Union (EU) country. The sustainable social and professional reintegration of migrants is a pillar of Swiss return policy and presents an opportunity for both countries of origin and the migrants themselves.
Strengthening cooperation on migration with Tunisia
The co-chairing of this meeting by Switzerland and Tunisia helps strengthen ties and cooperation in the field of migration. Through the migration partnership concluded with Tunisia in 2012, Switzerland is pursuing a comprehensive approach to migration: border security, promotion of regular migration channels, return and reintegration with dignity, and protection of migrants.
Switzerland assumes chairmanship of the Rabat Process in 2026
The Lausanne conference marks the first event of Switzerland’s chairmanship of the Rabat Process. Switzerland has assumed the chairmanship of the Euro-African Dialogue on Migration and Development (Rabat Process) for the year 2026. The Rabat Process brings together 28 African countries, 29 European countries and other key actors, such as the EU and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). It provides a framework for consultation between countries of origin, transit, and destination with the aim of finding a coordinated and balanced response to migration issues.