This brief examines the policies, practices, and contextual factors that make compulsory returns such a difficult issue for international cooperation. It lays out the many perspectives migration policymakers must attempt to reconcile when considering returns—from the rule of law to humanitarian, development, and security and stability concerns. It also looks at the scale and diversity of compulsory returns around the world, including those initiated by the Dominican Republic, EU Member States, Iran, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the United States.