What Caused 850,000 Syrians to Return Home as UN Calls for Support?
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Synopsis
In a significant development, around 850,000 Syrians have returned home from neighboring countries since December, as highlighted by the UN refugee agency. This comes amid ongoing efforts to provide support for safe and dignified returns. UN officials stress the need for international involvement in Syria's recovery efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Approximately 850,000 Syrians have returned home since December.
- The UNHCR is actively providing support for safe returns.
- Lebanon continues to host hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees.
- International involvement is crucial for stabilization efforts.
- Over 1.7 million IDPs have returned to their homes.
Beirut, Sep 3 (NationPress) Approximately 850,000 Syrians have made their way back from neighboring nations since December, as reported by the United Nations refugee agency. This announcement coincided with the conclusion of a five-day visit by the agency's deputy chief, Kelly Clements, to Lebanon and Syria.
During her visit, Clements engaged with both Lebanese and Syrian officials, as well as refugees who recently returned and those contemplating their return, based on a statement from the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).
The UNHCR has expanded its support to guarantee that returns are conducted in a voluntary, safe, and dignified manner, providing financial aid, transportation, shelter, and livelihood assistance in the returning communities.
"I witnessed firsthand the determination of people to return, settle, and rebuild despite the grim reality of devastation and inadequate services following 14 years of conflict," Clements remarked.
Lebanon continues to accommodate hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees and has seen nearly 200,000 individuals return this year alone. Meanwhile, new arrivals fleeing ongoing violence in Syria continue to enter Lebanon, highlighting the ongoing nature of the displacement crisis, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
In Syria's regions of Damascus, Homs, and Idlib, Clements visited returnees receiving support for housing renovations and small business initiatives. She also inaugurated a renovated Civil Registry Office in Maaret Al Nouman, Idlib, aimed at improving access to vital documentation for returning families.
"The international community cannot merely be spectators," Clements emphasized.
"They must actively participate in supporting stabilization and recovery efforts, assisting Syrians in rebuilding and reshaping their homeland," she stated.
In discussions with Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and other cabinet officials, she acknowledged their ongoing generosity in hosting Syrian refugees and pledged to enhance cooperation in facilitating voluntary returns.
The UNHCR has increased its support for those opting to return, which includes providing financial assistance and transportation to ensure the process is dignified and sustainable.
According to official figures, over 1.7 million internally displaced people (IDPs) have returned, including more than 880,000 individuals who have left IDP sites in northern Syria.
Point of View
It's imperative to highlight the resilience of the Syrian people in the face of adversity. The return of 850,000 individuals signifies a crucial step toward recovery, but it also underscores the ongoing need for international support and cooperation to stabilize the region. Our commitment remains with the nation and its people as we navigate these complex challenges together.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Syrians returning home now?
Many Syrians are returning home due to improved conditions and support from organizations like the UNHCR, which ensures safe and dignified returns.
What assistance is provided for returning refugees?
The UNHCR offers financial aid, transportation, shelter, and livelihood support to ensure a smooth transition for returning refugees.
What is the current situation for Syrian refugees in Lebanon?
Lebanon continues to host a significant number of Syrian refugees, with ongoing challenges as new arrivals come in due to violence in Syria.
What are the international community's responsibilities?
The international community is urged to actively support stabilization and recovery efforts to aid Syrians in rebuilding their country.
How many internally displaced people have returned?
Official estimates indicate that over 1.7 million internally displaced people have returned, including those from IDP sites.
