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and Central Sudan, implementation of some aspects has already begun. The UN
system has helped in various surveys. Here again there is no magic wand, but
a systematic effort. In order to give the necessary support to the launching
and implementation of the plan, and to follow up progress carefully, a task
force has been set up within Headquarters, drawing on all sectors concerned.
Djibouti today is an example of a situation where a new element intervenes
and entails reorientation of part of the programme toward a durable solution
in this case voluntary repatriation. Refugees have now started to return to
Ethiopia, some spontaneously, some under the organized repatriation
programme. The return of the first group under the programme took place on
19 September. Two further groups have returned since. The Tripartite
Commission composed of authorities from Ethiopia, Djibouti, and of UNHCR,
focussed on ways and means to promote the return while emphasizing its
strictly voluntary nature. A plan was established to provide appropriate
relief and rehabilitation assistance measures upon return. Here we see the
regional dimension of the problem. Returnees from Djibouti cannot be viewed
in isolation but fit into the wider context of voluntary repatriation to
Ethiopia. UNHCR Offices have been opened in Asmara and Dire Dawa to provide
technical assistance to the Government and the agencies and on-site monitoring
of programme implementation.
When the Special Programme of Assistance to Ethiopian Returnees started in
June 1982 it was felt, on the basis of the pattern which had evolved over the
years, that basic relief assistance was necessary but not sufficient. Hence,
in addition to distribution of food and other basic commodities,
self-sufficiency packages are given, for agricultural or pastoral activities,
according to the requirements. On the one hand utensils, a draft animal, a
plough, seeds and fertilizers, and on the other starter flocks of goats,
sheep, or cattle. Urban returnees are eligible to receive assistance in
establishing small-scale cottage industries. Thus, an endeavour for an
overall programme, adapted to refugee needs and local realities. However,
once more we have learned that in a real world, it is not sufficient to wind
up the clock and let it go. According to the Government, it seems that up to