Attachments
Background:
As of December 2024, Syria is undergoing major transformations following the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad by the military operations. These transformations have created opportunities and challenges across sectors.
Although the end of al-Assad's regime has ushered in a new chapter for Syria, the nation faces substantial hurdles in achieving stability, economic recovery, and social cohesion. The international community's response and the new government's policies will be pivotal in shaping Syria's future trajectory.
SYRIA
UNHCR estimates that 115,000 Syrians have returned back to Syria since 8 December.
This is based on public statements by host countries, contacts with immigration services from inside Syria and UNHCR and partner border monitoring.
In terms of official statements, on 30 December, the Turkish Minister of Interior reported that 35,114 Syrians have voluntarily returned since 8 December. The Government of Jordan also reported more than 22,000 Syrians have entered Syria through Jordan, 3,100 of whom are registered refugees.
As of 27 December, the IDP Taskforce reports that approximately 664,000 individuals remain newly displaced across Syria, primarily in Idleb and Aleppo governorates, since the beginning of December. Women and children account for more than three-quarters of those who remain displaced. Meanwhile, nearly 486,000 IDPs have returned to their areas of origin, mainly in Hama and Aleppo governorates.
Prevailing insecurity – including armed clashes, increased criminal activity, and unexploded ordnance - continues to present challenges for civilians and will likely influence the potential decision to return home faced by Syrians living outside the country.
UNHCR continues to engage with caretaker authorities, including a 29 December meeting with the Dar’a Governor’s Office to discuss humanitarian needs in the governorate. Likewise, UNHCR continues to visit active border crossings, monitor processes and listen to Syrians crossing back into the country about their priorities and needs.