The UN Refugee Agency has welcomed the resumption of government-led return movements in northern Sri Lanka, following a pause for the general election. 

Some 207,000 IDPs have left camps in the north and east of the country since the organised return process began in August. UNHCR was forced to suspend this assistance due to a funding shortfall, but thanks to recent contributions by donors, the Refugee Agency has restarted the shelter cash grants to assist around 10,000 families who have returned to their homes but have not yet received the grant due to the suspension.

Many returnees have used the cash grants to start repairing their houses or to construct new shelters whilst others have purchased bicycles which allow them to access services, transport goods and re-establish social networks. Some families may also use the money to pay for labour for land clearance or to invest in starting up small businesses.

UNHCR also continues to distribute other items of relief aid to returnees such as plastic mats, mosquito nets, clothing and jungle clearing tools. Mine clearance and government reconstruction efforts are continuing after years

of war. Livelihood activities and general services such as transport, health and education are still lacking in most of the return areas. Addressing these issues will help support the return of IDPs.

In the final fighting of the prolonged war last April and May, around 280,000 people were displaced. They ended up in more than 40 camps, mainly in the Menik Farm site in the Vavuniya region. The camps are now hosting less than one third of their initial population. Returns and the subsequent decongestion eased the pressure on the health, food and water services. IDPs continue to use the pass system to leave and re-enter the camp.

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