Freetown: British High Commission delegation met the Ministry of Employment, Labour and Social Security on February 17, 2026, advancing discussions on bilateral cooperation targeting illegal migration and repatriation protocols for nationals residing unlawfully in the United Kingdom. According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the discussion centered on comprehensive migration management strategies, specifically addressing return mechanisms and reintegration support for undocumented Sierra Leonean citizens. Permanent Secretary Joseph Tekman Kanu welcomed delegates to the Ministry conference room, expressing appreciation for engagement and inviting a detailed presentation of visit objectives. Deputy British High Commissioner Kathleen Reid, OBE, framed discussions within broader bilateral consultations, noting prior engagements with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and the Chief Immigration Officer. Migration represents a critical United Kingdom priority, she emphasized, necessitating Labour Ministry involvement given its central role in shaping migration policies. James Brereton, Deputy Director for Returns at the UK Home Office, identified two primary challenges driving British Government focus: irregular arrivals crossing the English Channel through dangerous small-boat routes from France, and individuals entering legally but overstaying visas or breaching immigration conditions. The United Kingdom pursues a dual approach reducing irregular migration while preserving legal pathways, Brereton explained. Mission objectives include establishing efficient return processes for Sierra Leonean nationals violating UK immigration laws, stressing all removals follow legal procedures guided by dignity, humanity, and respect principles. Voluntary returns remain the preferred option, with financial reintegration support available through country return service programmes. "Majority return voluntarily," Brereton stated. "Remaining cases require enforcement of UK immigr ation laws. Commitment ensures dignified treatment and reintegration support upon arrival." Deputy Minister Hon. Lansana M. Dumbuya characterized migration as a pressing, complex national issue. International Organization for Migration data reveals 8,581 Sierra Leoneans repatriated over five years, prompting President Bio's administration to temporarily restrict certain migration activities upon assuming office. The Cabinet subsequently reviewed the position, recognizing properly regulated migration creates lawful employment opportunities. The Overseas Employment and Migrant Workers Act, 2023, provides a legal protection framework for citizens abroad, addressing welfare standards, recruitment practices, and employer obligations. High unemployment drives irregular migration, Deputy Minister acknowledged, noting the urgent need for strengthened reintegration support. "Budget deficit severely constrains reintegration capacity," he stated. "Development partners, including the United Kingdom, must support reinte gration enabling dignified rebuilding of lives." Structured skills training programmes covering tailoring, driving, and industrial trades would promote self-reliance while reducing re-migration risks, Deputy Minister suggested. Previous cash-based assistance occasionally funded repeat migration attempts rather than sustainable livelihoods. The Government secured two trafficking convictions despite persistent witness non-appearance challenges during litigation. The Trafficking in Persons Committee, comprising Labour Ministry, Social Welfare, and key stakeholders, strengthens anti-trafficking coordination. Intensified public awareness campaigns targeting border districts including Kailahun, Kambia, Pujehun, and Kono remain critical given irregular migration route origins. ECOWAS free movement provisions complicate enforcement, enabling regional mobility facilitating onward European migration. Deputy Minister clarified the Foreign Affairs Ministry mandate covers documentation and diplomatic engagement, while Labour focuses on labour migration and legal pathways. Permanent Secretary Kanu affirmed Ministry support for structured bilateral agreement. "Citizens naturally seek better opportunities abroad," he acknowledged. "Migration must operate within legal frameworks. Structured agreements protect citizens while maintaining national image." Ministry awaits formal draft Memorandum of Understanding through official channels. Assistant Director for Labour Migration Ibrahim John Deen pointed to expanding legal employment pathways. "Migration drives citizens seeking opportunities," he observed. "Irregular migration requires addressing, yet structured employment opportunities through bilateral agreements reduce illegal migration significantly." Ministry stands ready facilitating overseas employment through legitimate channels while strengthening public awareness of legal migration options. Deputy Minister Dumbuya thanked the delegation, reiterating Government commitment promoting legal, orderly migration. Two recruitm ent licenses withdrawn from operators violating regulations, with warnings of prosecution for illegal migration activities. "Citizens deserve job access," he affirmed. "Endangering lives through employment seeking cannot continue. Legitimate job opportunities must channel through official government mechanisms." Both parties expressed readiness to deepen cooperation toward a finalized bilateral framework addressing migration challenges and reintegration requirements effectively.