Framework Analysis: Potential Repatriation and Mental Health System Recovery in the MENA

During the last decade and a half we have seen the culmination of what is perceived to be the biggest refugee and humanitarian crises the world has witnessed since World War II. The parts of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are in turmoil, and we are witnessing an outpouring of people fleeing the violence through precarious means. It is unknown when stability will return to parts of the MENA, but this does not mean the global health community cannot be proactive in planning for post-conflict health system recovery. With the vast number of today’s refugees originating from the MENA, it is possible that future recovering MENA nations will see the return, or repatriation, of refugees. Repatriates undergo a multi-phase exposure period that poses risks for adverse mental health outcomes, but there is extremely limited research about the risk factors and outcomes within this group. Early planning for repatriation and mental health system rehabilitation in the region will help ensure adequate mental health care delivery and coverage to vulnerable groups like repatriates. In this paper, I propose a hybrid framework, called the Repatriation and Mental Health (REPATMENT) Framework, which is built upon the literature review and various UN agency frameworks that address repatriation, health system recovery, and mental health and psychosocial support in post-conflict setting. The REPATMENT Framework acknowledges that 1) cross-system linkages, 2)information sharing, and 3)coordination between recovery actors are key to progressing through mental health system recovery. These essential factors, and the consideration of potential challenges, benefit elements of the REPATMENT Framework and could aid future repatriation and post-conflict recovery efforts