Expectations around return vary between programmes: some long-term fellowships do not expect participants to return to their home country, whereas for other universities return is a requirement, unless the risks are too high. In all cases, preparing for the end of the programme, and the transitions this entails, should begin early and be an ongoing process throughout the period of relocation so that participants and programme staff can work together to manage opportunities, challenges and risks. Ultimately the responsibility for the future of the defender rests with the defender, even if the programme staff can help them explore different scenarios and practicalities.

It is important to stress that all outcomes can be considered a success if defenders have been able to take stock of their careers and lives and face the future, whatever that holds, with renewed resolve. When defenders return home or to a third country to continue or extend their human rights work, many schemes will have fulfilled their goal. If defenders claim asylum, developing their human rights or other careers abroad, protection schemes have helped them transition to safety and to the possibility of alternative futures.