About NEAS/SL

Our Story

 Network of Ex-Asylum Seekers – Sierra Leone (NEAS-SL)

The Network of Ex-Asylum Seekers – Sierra Leone (NEAS-SL) is a registered, non-profit, humanitarian organization dedicated to supporting Sierra Leonean migrants who have been deported or have experienced forced removal from Europe, North America, North Africa, the Middle East, and other parts of the world. Founded by former asylum seekers and deportees, NEAS-SL understands the challenges of forced deportation and works to ensure that every deportee is treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Our mission is to restore hope, rebuild lives, and promote the successful social and economic reintegration of deportees and other vulnerable migrants into their communities. We recognize that many deportees face significant challenges, including trauma, stigma, unemployment, homelessness, social exclusion, and limited access to essential services. Through our holistic approach, we provide comprehensive support that empowers individuals to regain confidence and become active contributors to society.

Our core programmes include psychosocial counseling, mental health and emotional support, livelihood assistance, vocational and skills development, entrepreneurship training, referral to healthcare and legal services, emergency humanitarian assistance, and community-based reintegration initiatives. We also conduct outreach activities, awareness campaigns, peer support programmes, and advocacy aimed at reducing stigma and promoting social inclusion.

NEAS-SL works closely with the Government of Sierra Leone, relevant ministries and agencies, local authorities, development partners, civil society organizations, community leaders, the private sector, United Nations agencies, embassies, international organizations, and migrant-led networks. Through these partnerships, we advocate for safe, dignified, and sustainable reintegration policies while strengthening national efforts to protect the rights and well-being of migrants and deportees.

In addition to providing direct support, NEAS-SL actively contributes to research, policy dialogue, capacity building, and evidence-based advocacy on migration, deportation, and reintegration. We believe that every individual deserves a second chance, regardless of the circumstances of their deportation.

At NEAS-SL, we are guided by the belief that

"Beyond Deportation, Every Life Matters." We remain committed to building a Sierra Leone where every deportee is welcomed with dignity, supported with opportunities, and empowered to rebuild a productive and meaningful future.

Our Vision

A Sierra Leone where every returning migrant is welcomed, respected, supported, and empowered to become a productive member of society.

Our Mission

To support deportees, returnees, and vulnerable migrants in rebuilding their lives with dignity through reintegration services, psychosocial support, livelihood opportunities, advocacy, and community empowerment.

Core Values

Dignity, Hope, Inclusion, Compassion, Empowerment, Transparency, Accountability, Collaboration, Respect for Human Rights.