‘We tasted the horrors of war’: Stories of refugees who returned home

In 2025, the United Nations recorded the largest surge of returns for displaced people, with nearly 15 million individuals returning to their home countries. This mass repatriation followed a period of significant global displacement, with many refugees sharing harrowing accounts of their experiences. One refugee described their return as tasting "the horrors of war," highlighting the enduring trauma and destruction faced in their homelands. The UN's International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been instrumental in facilitating these returns, providing assistance and support to individuals and families reintegrating into their communities. These journeys often involve navigating complex political landscapes and rebuilding lives amidst widespread devastation. The scale of these returns underscores the ongoing challenges faced by post-conflict regions and the resilience of populations seeking to reclaim their lives and homes.