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Syria

Syria Returnee Rapid Assessment (May 2025)

Attachments

i. INTRODUCTION

Following the change in central governance in December 2024, Syria remains in the grip of a severe humanitarian crisis after more than 13 years of conflict and instability. Ongoing hostilities in some areas, widespread infrastructure destruction, and mass displacement have left millions in urgent need of assistance. Critical services such as healthcare, education, water, and sanitation remain severely disrupted, exacerbating the struggles of vulnerable populations.

As of 15 May 2025, UNHCR estimates that over half a million – 501,126 – Syrians have crossed back to Syria via neighbouring countries since 8 December 2024. 1,200,486 internally displaced persons (IDPs) have returned to their homes in Syria including 344,733 returning from IDP sites since early December 2024 according to the latest data of the IDP Task Force. However, they face significant challenges, including limited access to basic services and other hardships that hinder their resettlement. To better understand these issues and inform appropriate response efforts, a rapid assessment was conducted to identify the key difficulties faced by returnees and their most pressing needs.