Reintegrating returning workers successfully into their communities

Apia, Samoa – 21 October 2025 – A consultation with stakeholders this week looked at helping integrate returning workers under RSE and Labour mobility employment, transition successfully back into their communities.

The consultation was convened by the Labour Employment and Export Program (LEEP) which is mandated under the Labour and Employment Relations Amendment Act 2023 to facilitate and administer the placement of Samoan citizens in overseas employment under bilateral agreements with other countries.

The consultation brought together twenty-one (21) stakeholders representing government ministries, agencies, and civil society organisations. This engagement aimed to strengthen coordination and deepen understanding among key partners in supporting Samoan workers returning under the Labour Mobility Schemes.

As the final phase of the Labour Mobility Scheme, reintegration focuses on helping returning workers transition successfully back into their communities, enabling their full participation in Samoa’s social, economic, and cultural life.

The session provided an opportunity for stakeholders to be informed and share common challenges encountered by returnees.

Further, the event allowed for stakeholders to examine how these challenges connect with existing support systems and discuss ways to improve coordination and referral mechanisms to ensure returnees and their families receive timely and effective assistance.

The consultation also highlighted opportunities for investment, entrepreneurship, and utilisation of skills, acknowledging the valuable contributions returning workers can make to local development through the experience and resources gained overseas.

Officials and stakeholders who participated in the consultation.

The session concluded with a productive dialogue on practical strategies to strengthen collaboration between stakeholders and returning workers.

Following the consultation, LEEP intends to initiate reintegration supports through its monthly Return Worker Briefings which will involves returning workers and their families to gain information, guidance, and access reintegration services.

The reintegration initiative ultimately seeks to empower returning workers to make informed choices to improve economic and social stability, ensuring their transition home is sustainable, inclusive, and rewarding for both individual and broader community.