The Return and Reintegration Facility (RRF) launched a new initiative aimed at modernising how reintegration support is delivered to returnees. The Cashless Transfer Project (CTP) introduces a secure and reliable digital payment system that enables EU+ Member States to provide assistance to individuals returning to their countries of origin.
Building on ICMPD’s mandate to promote sustainable and dignified return and reintegration, the CTP responds to the growing need for faster, safer, and more transparent financial disbursement mechanisms. Currently, reintegration assistance is often delivered in-kind and relies heavily on cash-based processes, which can be administratively burdensome and less secure. By transitioning to digital, cashless solutions, the project seeks to streamline payments, reduce risks, and enhance accessibility for returnees.
At the core of the initiative is identifying a service provider capable of delivering mobile-based payments, such as mobile wallets or mobile money transfers to returnees in Georgia, Iraq, Jordan, and Syria. RedRose, a leading company in the digital cash transfer and aid-delivery sector, has been contracted for this pilot phase. With extensive experience in humanitarian payment solutions, RedRose will ensure that assistance reaches beneficiaries efficiently, securely, and in full compliance with data protection standards.
The pilot will support approximately 100 cases and is designed with a strong user-centred approach. It addresses the diverse needs of returnees by offering multilingual customer support and tailored payment solutions adapted to each country context. Regular reporting from RedRose will enable Member States and the RRF team to closely monitor progress, ensure transparent implementation and gather lessons to inform future programming. Where mobile-based options are not feasible, alternative digital methods may be proposed, ensuring flexibility, while prioritising accessibility and user experience.
Digital payments represent a significant step forward in ensuring dignified and timely support for returnees. The CTP will not only simplify procedures but also reinforce accountability and strengthen reintegration outcomes.
As the project advances, its findings will contribute to broader efforts in expanding digital innovation within return and reintegration programming.
