repatriation
The return of someone (such as a refugee, prisoner of war, or migrant) or something (such as cultural artifacts) to their own country.
Repatriation is a formal, legal process. When applied to people, it must ideally be voluntary and conducted with dignity under international law. When applied to objects, it refers to returning looted heritage.
Word relationships
- return: Return is a general term for going back, while repatriation is the formal, legal act of returning someone or something specifically to their native country.
- expatriation: Expatriation is the act of leaving one's native country, either voluntarily or through banishment.
Commonly confused with
- deportation: Deportation is the forced expulsion of an undesirable alien from a country, often punitive; repatriation is the act of returning someone to their homeland, ideally for their own benefit or protection.
Word family
- repatriate (verb): To return someone or something to their country of origin.
Collocations
- voluntary repatriation
- repatriation of prisoners
- cultural repatriation
- repatriation program
Example sentences
- "The United Nations organized the voluntary repatriation of thousands of refugees who had fled across the border during the height of the conflict." A humanitarian report on post-war refugees.
- "The museum agreed to the repatriation of the ancient bronze sculptures, returning them to their country of origin." A museum discussing looted historical treasures.
Memory hook
Think of 're-' (back) + 'patriot' (someone who loves their country). Repatriation is sending a patriot back to their country. Re-patria: Back to the fatherland.
When not to use
Do not use for simple travel or returning home from a vacation. It must involve crossing international borders under formal, often post-conflict or legal, circumstances.
Fun facts
- In recent years, the repatriation of cultural heritage has become a major issue for world-class museums, leading to the return of items like the Benin Bronzes to Nigeria.
Explore more words
repatriate, resettlement, restoration, refugee, restitution, rehabilitation
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