The UN reports over 300,000 refugees have returned to Syria since the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad, with nearly one million internally displaced individuals also returning. The civil war has generated the largest displacement crisis globally, with a growing need for housing and support as individuals look to return to their homes, many of which are severely damaged. UNHCR stresses the need for international aid to meet these challenges.
According to the United Nations, over 300,000 refugees have returned to Syria since the fall of dictator Bashar al-Assad. Alongside this, nearly one million internally displaced individuals have also returned to their homes within the country. Celine Schmitt, spokesperson for the UN refugee agency (UNHCR), reported this figure during a press briefing conducted via video-link from Damascus. A considerable portion of these returnees is believed to have originated from Turkey, where approximately three million Syrian refugees reside. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan noted that over 133,000 Syrians previously in Turkey have returned.
The onset of the rebel offensive that ousted Assad marked a significant turning point, ending his family’s long-standing rule and initiating a civil war that has since led to over half a million deaths. This prolonged conflict has generated what has been identified as the “world’s largest displacement crisis.” Schmitt indicated that, despite the challenging circumstances, many individuals who fled are keen to return to their homes, underlining a significant trend of repatriation.
In addition to the refugees, UNHCR identified that around 900,000 individuals displaced internally also returned to their home areas. A recent survey conducted by UNHCR indicates that one million internally displaced persons (IDPs) residing in camps across northwestern Syria plan to return to their original homes within a year. The survey, which included responses from 4,800 households, revealed that more than half intended to return, most within the next twelve months.
Currently, over 3.4 million IDPs are situated in northwestern Syria, primarily in 1,500 camps and displacement sites in Idlib and Aleppo. Schmitt noted heightened eagerness among the IDPs in Idlib to return, highlighting concerns regarding potential population surges in previously contested regions. For instance, towns like Maarat An-Numan and Kafr Nobol could experience population increases from 3,000 to 130,000, significantly straining local services and infrastructure.
Access to housing remains a major concern; Schmitt mentioned that a large majority of IDPs expressed the intent to return, yet 80 percent reported that their homes are severely damaged or destroyed. The UNHCR has appealed for increased support from international donors, estimating that over $170 million is necessary for essential needs. However, as of now, funding is below 10 percent of what is required to fulfill these urgent activities.
The repatriation of more than 300,000 refugees and nearly one million internally displaced individuals highlights the ongoing effects of the Syrian conflict. The UN’s findings underscore the urgent needs for housing and support services as many return to severely damaged homes. Furthermore, the expected growth in population in previously contested areas poses additional challenges for already overstretched infrastructure. International assistance remains critical to address these pressing needs and facilitate the reintegration process for returning populations.
Original Source: www.newarab.com
