Norway backs IOM programme for reintegration of former cadres

The Norwegian Embassy in Colombo has contributed NOK 3 million (approximately Rs. 57 million) to support the International Organisation for Migration’s (IOM) programme that is assisting reintegration and reconciliation of former LTTE cadres into their own society.   

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A signing ceremony between Norwegian Ambassador Hilde Haraldstad and IOM Chief of Mission Richard Danziger took place on 2 November at the Royal Norwegian Embassy in Colombo.

Announcing the contribution at the signing ceremony, the Norwegian Ambassador emphasised the importance of social and economic reintegration of ex-cadres of LTTE.

Haraldstad remarked: “It is important to assist them to return home and to start a new life.

The IOM programme is geared to meet their urgent needs and will provide the ex-cadres with a foundation from which they can start a livelihood and rebuild their lives.”

The IOM programme for reintegration of former cadres of LTTE has been implemented since 2009.

It is designed to support longer term peace and human security needs both at the individual and community level by supporting the reintegration of former cadres both economically and socially.

IOM has already provided direct assistance to more than 3000 former LTTE cadres, enabling them to start new livelihoods, by providing training, tools, small grants and job placement.

Norway continuously supports rebuilding of the conflict-ridden areas in the North and East of Sri Lanka covering a wide range of activities which address humanitarian needs, recovery and development.

The support promotes humanitarian demining, shelter, rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure, livelihood, food security, education and training.