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UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is urgently seeking $310 million1 to address the critical needs of up to 1 million Syrian refugee returnees expected to arrive in Syria between January and June 2025 as part of spontaneous and host government organized movements from neighbouring countries. This appeal also includes support for 200,000 local community members who will be hosting the refugee returnees, as well as returning internally displaced persons (IDPs), in collaboration with other UN agencies and partners.
This comes in the context of recent dramatic developments in Syria that will affect millions of people both within the country and across the region. Amidst a rapidly changing environment, UNHCR remains committed to its protection principles while staying adaptable to respond to the evolving needs of those affected, wherever they may be.
While we urge host countries to respect Syrians’ right to return freely and voluntarily, at a time of their choosing, and to allow them the flexibility to assess conditions through mechanisms such as “Go and See” visits, UNHCR is not advocating for large-scale repatriations to Syria at this time. However, we are preparing to assist those Syrians who will make the voluntary decision to return. Our response will be guided by the voices of refugees, reflecting the conditions they need to feel safe and secure in their decision to return home. In host countries, UNHCR maintains extensive outreach networks to refugee communities, helplines and call centres and is conducting intention surveys. Funding will ensure that preparedness and response activities are in place inside Syria, enabling comprehensive support for Syrian returnees and returning IDPs, as well as members of communities that are hosting them.