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Armenia: Population Movement 2024 DREF Operation MDRAM014

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Description of the Event

Approximate date of impact

The Armenian Red Cross Society (ARCS) has identied 26 January 2025, as the trigger date, with approximately 560 people expected to arrive in the country from Syria. Around 80 people are anticipated to arrive each Sunday starting from 6 December 2024. This scenario is based on in-depth discussions with government representatives, who anticipate an increase in arrivals following the reactivation of air connections between Syria and Armenia.

Provide any updates in the situation since the eld report and explain what is expected to happen.

The ARCS has proactively engaged with the Government of Armenia, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs, and Migration Services, to obtain detailed data on the anticipated influx of people arriving from Syria and Lebanon. This includes a request for disaggregated information by age and gender to ensure targeted and effective planning for humanitarian assistance. These efforts aim to address the urgent needs of incoming populations while maintaining a comprehensive understanding of their demographic composition.

The shift of power in Syria in December 2024, have introduced new risks for both the country and the region. The recent events have contributed to an increase in migration ows, with 55 people recently arriving in Armenia from Syria, reecting the fast-evolving security and humanitarian situation where an estimated 12,000 Armenians still reside. The Armenian government has remained vigilant, closely monitoring the current situation and coordinating with international partners to facilitate safe passage for those eeing hostilities. Despite the closure of diplomatic missions in Aleppo and Damascus, alternative communication channels have been established to assist people seeking safety. The government has also adapted its response mechanisms, prioritising the safety and integration of new arrivals.

In parallel, the recent developments in Lebanon have also driven increased migration, with approximately 1,600 persons arriving from Lebanon in Armenia since October 2024. This signicant inux poses dual challenges for the the Armenian government and humanitarian organizations, requiring responses tailored to the unique circumstances of people on the move from two interconnected crises. Both groups need support in areas such as housing, healthcare, and legal assistance to facilitate their integration into Armenian society.

On 14 December 2024, a flight from Beirut to Yerevan brought 115 passengers, mostly of Armenian nationality and the inclusion of 19 people from Syria. Among them, ARCS interviewed 13 passengers of Syrian nationality, with some of the interviewed holding dual Lebanese nationality. While many passengers declined interviews, those who participated voiced concerns about employment challenges and emphasised the urgent need to relocate due to escalating humanitarian crisis. Many expressed fear hostilities in Syria and Lebanon and highlighted the direct risks these posed to their families. The interviews also reflected uncertainty about their future in Armenia, underscoring the fluidity of the crisis and their search for stability.

To ensure proper documentation and facilitate access to essential services, ARCS instructed all new arrivals to register with the Migration Service Center. This step is critical for coordinating assistance and integrating persons arriving from Syria and Lebanon into Armenian society. ARCS continues to work closely with the government and other stakeholders to provide a comprehensive and coordinated response to the challenges posed by the influx of people on the move.

The likelihood of a significant influx of persons arriving from Syria and Lebanon remains unpredictable and varies daily. In anticipation, the Government of Armenia has established a coordination mechanism and sought support from international humanitarian partners. These eorts are aimed at mitigating potential strain on the country, drawing from lessons learned during the 2023 Karabakh crisis. By combining government initiatives with the operational expertise of organizations like ARCS, Armenia strives to ensure that its response to this evolving crisis remains timely, eective, and rooted in humanitarian principles.