From Czechia to Mongolia: A Circuitous Route Home

Otgonbayar Chultemsuren was born and raised in Sukhbaatar Soum of Selenge Province, Mongolia, located 320 km north of Ulaanbaatar, near the Russian border.  

In 2018, Otgonbayar left Mongolia for Czechia under a labour agreement. He wanted to return to his home country after working in Czechia for two years. However, his return was complicated by border closures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, he continued his journey, finding work as an Asian chef in a sushi restaurant in France, run by fellow Mongolians. Even while working there, he continued to explore diverse options for his future. 

Otgonbayar eventually made his way to Belgium, where he stayed for a few months. Driven by his desire to return to Mongolia, he reached out to the IOM in Belgium for assistance through the Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration (AVRR) programme.  

"Due to the pandemic, there were few flights available, and ticket prices were very high. After working on and off for two years, I needed help with flight tickets and my return," Otgonbayar recalled. 

The staff at IOM Belgium were incredibly supportive. "They were very welcoming and patient," Otgonbayar remembers. "They explained everything clearly, even using drawings and sketches to ensure I understood, as I didn't speak the language." 

Finally, on June 7, 2022, Otgonbayar returned to Mongolia. Upon arrival, he contacted IOM Mongolia, following the guidance he received in Belgium. After meeting in person with IOM Mongolia's AVRR project assistant, he participated in an AVRR briefing session. "I could sense that IOM Mongolia’s AVRR team is dedicated and making good use of valuable resources for the wellbeing of people," he said. 

After returning to his home country, he went back to his home province. He now lives in Khuder Soum of Selenge Province, where he works as a livestock herder with his youngest daughter and son-in-law. “I have always believed that herding livestock in the Mongolian countryside would provide me with the best life, even when I was in Europe,” Otgonbayar said. 

IOM’s reintegration assistance has been instrumental in helping Otgonbayar build his new life as a herder. He purchased solar panels to satisfy his electricity needs during his transhumant mobility. Furthermore, he bought a motorcycle, which is commonly used by Mongolian herders to move or drive animals. 

Returning to his roots and embracing a pastoral life has brought Otgonbayar a sense of peace and fulfilment. Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledges the hardships he faced while also appreciating the valuable experiences he gained. He encourages other migrants to never lose hope and to seek assistance when needed, emphasizing the importance of returning home and rebuilding their lives in their own communities. 

This story was written by CHO Minkyung, Associate Officer at IOM Mongolia