AbstractsLaw & Legal Studies

This thesis analyses the factors influencing return migration and subsequent integration of former refugees into the Liberian society. Based on interviews with more than 40 Liberian returnees conducted in Monrovia, Gbarnga and Zwedru in late 2013 I analyse the return migration and integration of former refugees in Liberia over the last decade. Understanding sustainability of return migration as primarily a matter of successful integration I analyse the various domains influencing the integration process. Compared to other studies on the topic I find significant and outspoken satisfaction with return. While some returnees are indeed facing severe hardship, fundamental rights, social networks, and emotional attachment made others willing to overlook significant issues with physical living conditions. I conclude that in an increasingly less accommodating world of refugees return migration has for many Liberian refugees held the biggest promise of finding a sustainable and worthy life.