UN High Commissioner Calls for Rapid International Support as Syria Sees Mass Return of Refugees

During a week‑long visit to Syria, UN High Commissioner for Refugees Barham Salih urged the global community to increase assistance as the country approaches a pivotal moment in its recovery. He highlighted that more than three million Syrians have already returned from abroad or from internally displaced camps since December 2024, underscoring the determination of citizens to rebuild. Salih met with President Ahmad Al‑Sharaa, the Foreign Minister, and members of the government’s inter‑ministerial committee working on the “No Tents, No Camps” initiative, stressing that a peaceful and inclusive Syria is essential for sustainable recovery. He also visited returnee families in Damascus, Idlib, and Aleppo, witnessing the progress and remaining challenges, such as the need for civil documentation, housing, and basic services. UNHCR is collaborating with Syrian authorities, UN agencies, and development partners to provide shelter rehabilitation, legal assistance, livelihoods programmes, and cash support. The High Commissioner emphasized that without swift international support, the historic opportunity to stabilize the region and rebuild will be lost. He reaffirmed UNHCR’s commitment to protecting refugees in host countries while supporting voluntary, safe, and dignified returns to Syria.