Syria: Thousands of displaced head home, but many refugees still wary
2025-02-13 12:00
Thousands of Syrians displaced by the country’s long-running conflict have begun to return home in recent months, as the fighting has subsided in some areas. However, many refugees are still wary of returning, citing concerns about safety, security, and a lack of basic services.
According to the United Nations, more than 6.6 million Syrians have been internally displaced within the country, while another 5.6 million have fled to neighboring countries as refugees. The vast majority of these refugees are women and children.
In recent months, the Syrian government has begun to encourage the return of displaced people and refugees, offering financial incentives and promising to provide security and basic services. However, many refugees are still hesitant to return, fearing that the fighting could resume at any time.
“I don’t trust the government,” said one refugee who spoke to Human Rights Watch. “They’ve been killing our people for years. Why would I believe them now?”
The refugees’ concerns are justified. The Syrian conflict is still ongoing, and there have been several outbreaks of violence in recent months. In addition, the Syrian government has been accused of arbitrary arrests, torture, and extrajudicial killings.
The lack of basic services is another major concern for refugees. Many areas of Syria have been destroyed by the war, and there is a severe shortage of food, water, and medical care.
“We don’t have anything to go back to,” said another refugee. “Our homes have been destroyed, and there are no jobs. We would be better off staying in Turkey.”
The international community has called on the Syrian government to create conditions that would allow refugees to return home safely and voluntarily. However, the government has been slow to respond to these calls.
“The Syrian government has a responsibility to protect its citizens and to create conditions that would allow them to return home,” said a spokesperson for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. “This includes providing security, basic services, and the rule of law.”
Until these conditions are met, many Syrian refugees will continue to live in exile.
Syria: Thousands of displaced head home, but many refugees still wary
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