Location: Bamako

Situation:

Mali, situated at the crossroads of seven sub-Saharan countries, is a transit country for very many people who want to reach Europe. Many Malians, of all socio-economic groups, also attempt this journey,  deemed to be worthwhile, to the north. At the same time, European immigration policies are hardening. A growing number of people who have been deported or refused entry find themselves forced back to Bamako.

Activities:

Doctors of the World (DOW) is helping to build the capacity of the Malian association for deportees (known as AME) to treat the psychological suffering of those who have been deported or refused entry. Training is provided and a network of mental heath professionals is being established. The project also intends to raise awareness of the situation and the effects of forced return, in order to tackle the stigma associated with migrants and their rejection by their families. In 2009, 313 individuals who had been deported or sent back were seen by AME.

Outlook:
DOW will continue these activities in partnership with AME. A seminar on mental health and forced return will be organised at the end of the project to bring together mental health professionals, civil society representatives and institutions.