From abroad to home: Communication pathways and the reintegration of returned migrants in Ghana

This study explores the critical role of both digital and informal communication pathways in influencing the reintegration process of migrant returnees to Ghana. Navigating their new environment, returnees’ resort to both face-to-face interactions with peers and family members, alongside social media platforms, to facilitate their reintegration process. Adopting a qualitative research approach of data collection and analysis, the study revealed that returned migrants adopt a variety of digital platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, LinkedIn, and other forms of personal conversations to establish businesses and other livelihood strategies in the process of settling in their new environment in Ghana. Returnees embody a dual worldview of individuals who have experienced life both at home and abroad, yet they face challenges in different forms during the process of reintegrating into their new homes. The study emphasised that, despite the presence of structured institutional communication channels to assist individuals in their reintegration process, challenges such as accessibility, misinformation, and digital literacy persist, thereby limiting their effective adoption by returnees. Thus, informal social networks, such as friends, families, and community support systems, are utilised as sources of support by returnees. The study underscores the importance of holistic reintegration programs that integrate effective communication strategies, ensuring returnees receive timely and relevant information. By placing communication at the heart of the reintegration process, this research advances migration discourse and provides actionable recommendations for policymakers and support organisations.