As of March 14, 2025, UNHCR reports 354,900 returns of Syrians from neighboring countries since December 2024. A Constitutional Declaration was signed on March 13, following the SDF’s integration into state institutions, which has been welcomed by the UN. However, recent conflicts have caused civilian casualties and displacement.
As of March 14, 2025, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has reported that approximately 354,900 Syrians have returned to Syria from neighboring countries since December 8, 2024. This estimate derives from a combination of data sourced both from inside and outside Syria, encompassing registered refugees along with additional individuals crossing from Türkiye, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Egypt, and transiting from regions beyond.
On March 13, the Caretaker Authorities of Syria ratified a Constitutional Declaration, which follows the announcement on March 10 regarding the incorporation of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into Syrian State institutions. This development has garnered support from UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir Pedersen, who expressed optimism that the declaration marks a crucial step toward reinstating the rule of law and establishing a credible and inclusive political transition framework.
Since March 6, intensified conflicts in the regions of Tartous, Lattakia, Homs, and Hama have led to numerous civilian fatalities, extensive damage to property and infrastructure, and the displacement of thousands of individuals in these coastal regions.
In summary, the recent UNHCR update indicates a significant return of Syrian refugees while highlighting the ongoing challenges posed by renewed hostilities. The recent Constitutional Declaration is a hopeful sign for a political transition, but the immediate impact on civilians is dire, necessitating continued monitoring and response efforts.
Original Source: reliefweb.int
