UNHCR launches IDP return support in Northern Sri Lanka

As thousands of new internally displaced persons (IDPs) arrive in new IDP camps in Vavuniya, Jaffna and Trincomalee, the first Government organised return movement to Musali in Mannar district marks the start of IDP return in Northern Sri Lanka.

Today some 411 IDPs returned to Saveriyarpuram village in Musali DS division. They were displaced about two years ago and have since lived in camps and with host families in Mannar district. For this first IDP return phase in Northern Sri Lanka, some 3,000 IDPs have registered to return to 15 villages in Musali DS division over the coming weeks. This is the first time in years that IDPs are able to return home in Mannar district, which was marked by the frontline between Government and LTTE positions for a long time.

"UNHCR welcomes this development, the return movement is a small but important starting point." said UNHCR Representative Amin Awad. "We hope that IDP return to other areas in Northern Sri Lanka will soon also be possible" he added. Read more ...