The Government has launched its first National Returnees Reintegration Policy and Strategic Plan 2026–2030, marking a significant step towards supporting citizens returning from overseas and helping them rebuild their lives within their families and communities.
The policy, launched by Crown Prince Tupoutoʻa ʻUlukalala on yesterday, is built around the vision of “Full Reintegration and Restoration of Returnees to Life”, which the Ministry of Internal Affairs says reflects a national commitment to helping returnees successfully re-establish themselves in Tongan society. The launch was described as a milestone of unity and support for returnees.
Speaking at the launch, the Crown Prince acknowledged that many returnees face stigma, limited employment opportunities and mental health challenges after arriving home. He said Tonga’s limited resources had made reintegration difficult but urged communities to welcome returnees with compassion and recognise the skills and resilience they could contribute.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs has spent almost two years developing the policy through the Tonga Returnees Support Programme. Work began with the programme’s first steering committee meeting in November 2024, followed by consultations throughout 2025 to develop the policy, mission, strategic priorities and implementation framework.
The strategy identifies eight priority outcomes covering successful reintegration, health and wellbeing, faith-based support, social protection, human rights, safety, governance and international collaboration. It also aims to reduce stigma and strengthen support during a returnee’s first weeks back in Tonga.
The Salvation Army Alcohol and Drug Addiction Centre welcomed the launch, describing it as a landmark commitment to ensuring “no one is left behind”. Alongside Dare to Dream, Ex-Con to Prisoners of Christ and Life Line Tonga, the organisation has been named as an implementing partner.
Australia and New Zealand have supported the programme’s development, including funding and technical assistance, as Tonga works to establish a long-term, nationally coordinated approach to reintegration.
